Tooth Extractions at Blockhouse Bay Dental Centre

The actual procedure to remove the tooth is really quite quick, and if it is causing you pain or discomfort, then you should quickly feel more comfortable. First, we use plenty of topical anaesthetic to ensure you cannot feel a thing before giving an injection of local anaesthetic. Once the anaesthetic has taken effect, your tooth is carefully removed. Please remember that if you wish to stop treatment at any time, you are always in control and you can take a break simply by raising your hand or even just a finger.

Once the tooth is removed, then we may leave the socket to heal on its own, or our dentist might choose to place some stitches. You might feel some temporary discomfort as the socket heals, but this should quickly pass. Our dental team will give you precise written and oral instructions on how to care for the empty socket site, and how to keep it clean as it heals.

Please don’t worry if you face losing a front tooth and are concerned about having a gap. We can discuss ways to temporarily and then permanently restore your tooth so you won’t be left without a smile.

• Do not rinse or vigorously spit for 12 hours. This can dislodge the blood clot, cause bleeding and delay the healing.
• Avoid exercise for the rest of the day. (Increased blood pressure can start bleeding).
• If bleeding starts take a clean handkerchief, wet it, wring it out, fold it, place over the bleeding socket and bite firmly. Lie down and keep it there for at least 30 minutes. If bleeding persists, reapply the handkerchief and leave for a further two hours or so. If the bleeding persists please contact us.
• Starting the next day, apply vigorous, hot salty mouthwashes as often as possible, especially after meals. One teaspoon of salt in hot water is all that is needed.
• If painful, take your normal analgesic. Nurofen (for those not allergic to aspirin or asthmatic) is probably the most effective. If pain persists without any improvement after 2-3 days please call the practice.

The loss of a tooth can lead to many scenarios, some occurring instantly, others taking years to appear:

• An unsightly gap may be present
• Loss of chewing efficiency
• Tilting of the adjacent teeth leading to food packing, resulting in gum disease, and eventual problems with these teeth unless the ultimate in oral hygiene is practiced
• The remaining teeth carry an extra load in chewing, often leading to these teeth wearing faster and fracturing, particularly if they are heavily filled.