A tooth extraction removes a tooth that’s no longer healthy or functional. At Dental Holistix, we’re here to make this process as comfortable and seamless as possible, using gentle techniques and clear communication every step of the way. We understand that the idea of an extraction can feel intimidating, so our team is ready to answer any questions and help you feel at ease.
We might recommend an extraction for several reasons, each aimed at helping you maintain your best oral health. Some common reasons include:
Severe decay or damage: When a tooth is too damaged to repair, removing it can protect surrounding teeth and gums and alleviate pain.
Overcrowding: Removing a tooth may create needed space if you’re preparing for orthodontics.
Infection or abscess: Sometimes an infection has reached the tooth’s pulp (the inner part of the tooth), and if it’s not treatable, extraction can prevent it from spreading.
Impacted teeth: Wisdom teeth, in particular, may grow in incorrectly or become “impacted” (stuck), which can cause pain or harm neighbouring teeth and require removal.
A tooth extraction can make a big difference in how your smile feels and functions. Here’s how:
Tooth extractions are a great option for patients who:
The extraction process usually takes one main appointment, followed by a few steps for healing. Here’s a typical timeline:
The cost varies depending on the specific tooth being extracted, ranging from $395 to $685.
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How long does recovery take after a tooth extraction?
Most people feel back to normal within a week, although complete healing of the extraction site may take several weeks. Following the aftercare steps we provide will help speed things along.
Will the extraction hurt?
We use local anaesthesia to keep you comfortable, so you won’t feel pain during the extraction. Some mild discomfort is normal as the numbing wears off, but this usually fades quickly and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Can I eat normally after an extraction?
After the extraction, it’s best to stick to soft foods for the first 24–48 hours. Avoid hard, hot, or spicy foods that may irritate the area. We’ll provide guidance on the best foods to eat while you heal.
What can I expect during recovery?
You may notice some swelling and minor bleeding in the first 24 hours. Rinsing gently with warm salt water after the first day and following all care instructions will help with healing.
Will I need to replace the extracted tooth?
In many cases, we recommend replacing an extracted tooth with an implant, bridge, or partial denture to keep your smile healthy and functional. We’ll talk about your options during the consultation.
TOOTH EXTRACTION: POST-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Proper post-operative care following a tooth extraction is important for optimal healing and to avoid complications.
Managing bleeding: After the extraction, a gauze pad will be placed over the site. Bite down firmly and continuously for 20-30 minutes to help form a blood clot. Avoid talking and chewing on the gauze as much as possible as this will have a pumping action and prolong the blood clotting process.
Persistent bleeding: If bleeding continues, make sure you are seated in a relaxed position with head elevation and have applied ice packs externally to the area. Place a fresh, slightly dampened gauze pad or clean handkerchief over the area and apply pressure by biting down firmly for another 30 minutes. Repeat if necessary. The amount of bleeding should steadily decline over time and appear more pink on the gauze compared to bright red. If the amount of bleeding has not reduced significantly, please contact our clinic on 07 858 0750.
Protecting the blood clot: Do not vigorously rinse, spit, or suck on a straw for the first 24 hours after an extraction, as these actions can dislodge the clot and delay healing. Avoid probing the area with your tongue or finger, and refrain from smoking for as long as possible after surgery, as it can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.
Managing swelling: Apply an ice pack (or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a cloth) to the outside of your face near the extraction site intermittently for 20-30 minutes every hour on the day of surgery to minimise swelling.
Pain relief: Take prescribed pain medications as directed. Over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen can also be used, but consult our dentist before taking any medication.
Brushing: Do not directly brush over the wound, but continue brushing your teeth, including those around the wound, starting the day after surgery. Keeping the area clean aids healing.
Rinsing: Gently rinse your mouth 2-3 times a day with warm, salty water or chlorhexidine mouth rinse (Curasept/ Savacol) starting the day after surgery. Avoid vigorous rinsing in the first 24 hours to prevent disturbing the blood clot.
Food and drink: Stick to soft foods and avoid hot liquids on the day of the extraction, and be careful to avoid traumatising the area with hard foods for the following week(s) as directed by the dentist. Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid using straws, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot.
During recovery: Limit strenuous physical activity for the first 48 hours to promote healing. Increasing your heart rate and blood pressure can cause bleeding and discomfort.
Elevate head: When lying down, keep your head elevated with pillows to help reduce bleeding and swelling.
Monitoring for complications: If you experience severe pain that doesn't improve with medication, or if the pain intensifies after a few days, please contact our clinic. This could indicate a dry socket, a condition where the blood clot is dislodged, exposing the underlying bone. A dry socket usually presents as a dull / throbbing ache around 3-4 days after surgery. Our experienced dentists can provide effective treatment options to promote the formation of a new blood clot and alleviate discomfort.
Dry socket treatment: If you develop a dry socket, you will likely need to visit our clinic for care. Treatment typically involves a thorough irrigation and cleaning by our dentist to remove any debris or food particles trapped in the area, which helps reduce irritation and promotes faster healing. A medicated dressing or gauze, often containing soothing agents like clove oil, will then be placed directly into the socket to relieve pain, protect the exposed bone and encourage healing. This dressing may need to be changed every 1–2 days, depending on how quickly symptoms improve. In some cases, our dentist may prescribe stronger pain medications for added comfort. Antibiotics are generally not required unless there are signs of infection, though they may be prescribed if an infection is present or if there’s a high risk of developing one.
Dry socket self-care at home: Rinse gently with warm salt water a few times daily to help keep the area clean and support healing. Avoid smoking, drinking through a straw or any activity that could disturb the clot again and prolong healing.
By following these instructions, you can support proper healing after a tooth extraction. Please read our blog to learn more about caring for your mouth after tooth extraction.
