Tooth Extraction | Key Reasons and Recovery Guide

June 23, 2025
Updated: August 11, 2025

Tooth extraction might sound intimidating, but it’s actually a common, safe dental procedure that can protect your oral health when a tooth is too damaged or problematic to save.

At Every Smile Dental, we always prioritise preserving your natural teeth first. But when extraction becomes necessary, we make the process gentle, precise, and as comfortable as possible.

This guide explains why a tooth might need removal, what to expect during the procedure, and how to care for your mouth afterward.

Quick Summary: Tooth Extraction at a Glance

Last resort when a tooth cannot be saved
Common reasons: severe decay, gum disease, impacted wisdom teeth, overcrowding, fractures, or infection
Comfort-focused process: numbing anaesthesia, careful extraction, and clear aftercare instructions
Recovery tips: rest, soft foods, avoid smoking/straws to prevent dry socket
Tooth replacement options: implants, bridges, or dentures for restored function and appearance

Why Would a Tooth Need to Be Extracted?

Tooth extraction is typically considered a last resort—but sometimes, it’s the best option to protect your smile and overall health. Here are some of the most common reasons for extraction:

1. Severe Tooth Decay

When decay extends deep into the tooth and damages the nerve or surrounding structure, and a root canal or filling is not enough, removal may be necessary.

2. Gum Disease

Advanced periodontal disease can loosen the supporting structures of your teeth, making extraction necessary to prevent further infection.

3. Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth that are trapped under the gums or growing at an angle can cause pain, crowding, and infection.

4. Overcrowding

In preparation for orthodontic treatment, one or more teeth may need to be removed to allow proper alignment.

5. Broken or Cracked Teeth

If a tooth is fractured beyond repair, especially below the gum line, extraction may be the best option.

6. Infection or Abscess

When an infection spreads and doesn’t respond to antibiotics or root canal therapy, extraction might be necessary to stop it from affecting nearby teeth or bone.

What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction

At Every Smile Dental, we prioritise patient comfort and use local anaesthesia to ensure a pain-free procedure. Here’s a general overview of the process:

Step 1: Examination and X-rays

Your dentist will assess the tooth and surrounding area using X-rays to determine the best method of extraction.

Step 2: Anaesthesia

A local anaesthetic is applied to numb the area. In some cases, sedation options are also available for anxious patients or more complex extractions.

Step 3: Extraction

Simple extraction: Used when the tooth is visible above the gumline. The dentist gently loosens and removes the tooth with forceps.
Surgical extraction: Needed for impacted or broken teeth. A small incision is made in the gum to access and remove the tooth.

Step 4: Post-Extraction Care

The dentist places gauze over the area to control bleeding and may provide stitches if necessary.

Recovery: What to Expect After a Tooth Extraction

Healing times can vary, but most people begin to feel better within a few days. Here are some important recovery tips:

Do:

Bite down on gauze for 30–45 minutes to stop bleeding
Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
Rest for at least 24 hours after the procedure
Eat soft foods (like soup, yoghurt, and mashed potatoes)
Keep your mouth clean, but avoid brushing the extraction site for the first day

Don’t:

Smoke or use a straw (this can dislodge the clot and cause a painful dry socket)
Eat hard, crunchy, or spicy foods
Rinse your mouth aggressively during the first 24 hours
Touch the extraction site with your fingers or tongue

Most people recover fully in about 7–10 days, depending on the complexity of the extraction.