Tooth Removal: Procedure, Aftercare, Types & Cost

Every Smile Dentistry provides professional Cosmetic Dental Care to make your smile look its best. We want you to be happy with your smile, so we are dedicated to making sure that your dental results are natural-looking, life-changing and long-lasting.

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Providing Quality General Dentistry with Experienced Doctors

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1. Book An Appointment

Visit our website and book an appointment with one of our experienced dentists.

2. Come In For A Consultation

Our team will sit down with you and discuss your dental needs and goals.

3. Get The Perfect Smile

We’ll work with you to develop a treatment plan that will get you the perfect smile.

Tooth Removal / Tooth Extraction

Tooth removal concept

Tooth removal is a surgical procedure in which the dentist removes a tooth from its socket. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia and can be completed in one visit. 

There are many reasons why a patient might need to have their teeth removed, but most often it’s because of tooth decay or an accident that caused damage to the tooth.

If you’re having trouble chewing food or swallowing properly, or if you feel pain when biting down on something, then it’s possible that your tooth needs to be removed.

Most times, this happens because of dental diseases such as decay or gum disease. In some cases, however, an injury can cause damage to a tooth that requires removal as well.

Why Are Teeth Removed?

Black woman with tooth ache

There are several reasons why a tooth may need to be removed;

  1.  The most common is decay or tooth decay. When bacteria in your mouth make their way into the enamel of your teeth, they begin to break down the structure of your teeth and produce acids that can eat away at the dentin (the layer beneath the enamel) and cause cavities. Treatment for this type of dental problem involves removing all affected tissue and filling in any holes you may have with a material called composite resin.
  2. Another reason teeth may need to be removed is due to trauma such as oral surgery or an accident. If you have had an accident that has caused damage to your jawbone or other surrounding structures, then it may be necessary for us to remove one or more teeth from the area so that we can properly treat the injury without further damaging surrounding structures such as nerves or blood vessels.
  3. If there is an infection in your mouth from a toothache or abscessed gum tissue, then we will likely recommend removing that infected area before it spreads any further throughout your body via blood vessels or lymphatic channels located near those areas.”

Tooth Removal Cost

coins and tooth on hand

Simple extractions typically cost R 400 to R 600 per tooth, though they could cost more depending on the kind of anaesthetic you require.

Impacted teeth removal carries a much higher price tag that can range from R800 to R1,200.

The cost of the process might also be influenced by where you reside because many services are based on the cost of living in a certain area.

Tooth Removal Procedures.

Holding after removal

Here’s a breakdown of the different procedures for tooth removal:

  1. Extraction: The dentist pulls the tooth out of your mouth. This is also called “extracting” or “pulling” the tooth.
  2. Surgical extraction: The dentist uses a special tool to remove the tooth in one piece. This is sometimes done if there are problems with the roots, such as gum disease or an abscessed nerve.
  3. Root canal treatment: The dentist removes all of the infected tissue from inside the tooth and fills it with a filling material like gutta-percha (a type of rubber). This allows you to keep your natural tooth instead of having it removed or replaced by an implant or bridge.
  4. Implant: The dentist places an artificial tooth root into your jawbone and then attaches an artificial crown on top of it. You will likely need some type of surgery to prepare for this procedure, but once it’s done, you’ll be able to eat just like normal!

Tooth Removal For A Painful Tooth: What Happens?

Your dentist or oral surgeon may employ one or more types of anaesthetic depending on your level of comfort and the anticipated complexity of your extraction.

Regional anesthetic

Your dentist or oral surgeon will place a numbing agent on your gums close to the tooth that is being extracted to provide local anaesthesia.

The local anaesthetic will next be applied by one or more injections close to the extraction site.

Not all sensations will be eliminated by the anaesthetic. Although there may be some movement and pressure, no severe pain or stinging should be felt. 

For a straightforward extraction, local anaesthetic is frequently employed, and you’ll remain conscious throughout.

Drowsiness anaesthesia

A few possibilities exist for further sedation.

Laughing gas, often known as nitrous oxide, provides mild sedation to help you unwind throughout your treatment.

You might be able to get conscious sedation from your dentist or oral surgeon by taking a pill or tablet before the surgery.

You’ll be completely awake with either of these choices, but you’ll also feel more at ease and sleepy.

Your dentist or surgeon can suggest sedatives administered through an intravenous (IV) line in your arm for more moderate sedation.

Sedation anaesthetic will make you unconscious during the surgery. You won’t remember much of the process. A deeper level of drowsiness is available with IV sedation.

You’ll always receive a local anaesthetic to relieve any discomfort at the extraction site.

Overall sedation

Only in exceptional circumstances is general anaesthesia typically made available.

You can receive it by IV in your arm or by nasal inhalation. Sometimes both are applied simultaneously. You will go completely unconscious under general anaesthesia.

Your respiration, blood pressure, and temperature will be checked as the extraction is being done.

You shouldn’t feel any discomfort or remember the operation. To lessen your postoperative discomfort, a local anaesthetic will probably be administered to you.

Disadvantages Of Tooth Removal / Tooth Extraction

The risks of tooth extraction include;

  • pain 
  • swelling 
  • bleeding 
  • infection

In addition to these risks, there is also the possibility that your mouth will be sore for several days afterwards. If you have had a tooth extracted recently or in the past, you may also experience temporary numbness or tingling in the area where the tooth was pulled out.

It is important to note that some patients have reported having trouble opening their mouths after having a tooth pulled. It is recommended that you avoid chewing on hard foods for at least 24 hours after your procedure.

Tooth Extraction: Aftercare

woman putting toothpaste on brush
  • After the operation, place an ice pack on your cheek to minimize swelling. Each time, apply the ice pack for 10 minutes.
  • Bite down to stop bleeding and promote clot formation when the dentist applies the gauze pad to the afflicted area.
  • Keep the gauze in place for three to four hours, or until the blood has completely saturated the pad.
  • All medications, including over-the-counter pain relievers, should be taken as directed.
  • For the first 24 hours, take it easy and rest.

The following day, don’t start your routine right away.

  • For the first 24 hours, refrain from using a straw.
  • Avoid smoking.
  • After the tooth extraction, do not rinse for 24 hours, and only gently spit.
  • When you are lying down, raise your head using pillows.
  • Brush and floss your teeth like normal but avoid the extraction
  • Eat soft foods the day after the surgery, such as yogurt, pudding, and applesauce.
  • Eight ounces of warm water with a half-teaspoon of salt added will help you rinse your mouth after 24 hours.
  • You can gradually reintroduce other foods into your diet as you recover over the following few days.

Make an appointment to see us at Every Smile Dentistry as soon as possible if you have discomfort that doesn’t go away after several days or symptoms of an infection, such as fever, pain, or pus or drainage coming from the incision.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can always submit a contact request if you have more questions or email info@everysmile.co.za

At Every Smile Dentistry, we believe that you deserve a pain-free tooth removal experience. Here are a few tips for making sure your visit goes as smoothly as possible:

  1.  Come prepared. Bring a list of any medications you take, including over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, vitamins, and prescription drugs.
  2.  Floss before your appointment to make sure there’s no food stuck in between your teeth. This will help reduce gum irritation during the procedure!
  3.  If you have any questions about the procedure or if you’re feeling nervous about it at all, don’t hesitate to ask our dental team! We want you to feel comfortable with everything from start to finish so that we can make sure this is an enjoyable experience for both of us (and keep our patients coming back)!

After getting a tooth removed, there are some things you should and shouldn’t do.

DO:

  • Eat soft, mashed foods for the first few days after your procedure.
  • Drink plenty of fluids to keep your mouth and throat healthy.
  • If you are having trouble eating or drinking, you can use an over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen as directed by your dentist or doctor.

DON’T:

  • Try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth from where you had the tooth removed until your mouth has healed.

The length of time it takes to recover from a tooth extraction can vary depending on a number of factors, including the location and complexity of the extraction, the overall health of the individual, and whether any complications arise.

In general, it is normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bleeding for a few days after the procedure.

Pain and swelling can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and ice packs.

Stitches, if needed, may need to be removed after a week.

Most people are able to return to their normal activities within a few days, although strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least a week.

It is important to follow your dentist’s or oral surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care, which may include taking prescribed medications, avoiding certain foods, and rinsing with a special mouthwash.

Overall, the healing process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the individual.

If you have any concerns about your recovery from tooth extraction, it is best to consult with your dentist or oral surgeon.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT US

Don't just take our word for it.

Every Smile Dentistry
4.8
Based on 86 reviews
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oyisile njisaneoyisile njisane
16:08 05 Aug 24
I visited Every Smile Dentistry for the first time today and I am pleased with the service I received. The receptions was very warm and welcoming.I was attended to by Dr A Somtunzi who was also so friendly and welcoming. I had my teeth cleaned and a filling done. She gave a detailed explanation of what needed to be done.She was so gentle and I felt no discomfort at all.I’m happy with the work she did.Outside the excellent service, I think the thoughtful gesture of having ladies essentials in the rest room for everyone to use won my heart
lenyora magocobalenyora magocoba
06:19 05 Aug 24
Did a filling and washing of teeth. Amazing pain-free experience, user friendly from online booking to sitting on the dental chair. GQEBERHA branch treated me soft.
Lethu NgxokelaLethu Ngxokela
21:05 25 Jul 24
Mongezi MhambiMongezi Mhambi
15:59 24 Jul 24
Doreen StegmannDoreen Stegmann
13:43 22 Jul 24
Phelisa GcangaPhelisa Gcanga
15:02 09 Jul 24
Haven't gone to the dentist in years so I was really nervous about this visit but the atmosphere in that office? So calm and so friendly. I would recommend this place to everyone, Sthabile Aphiwe Majola is definitely the kind of dentist everyone wants to have✨✨.
nonkoliseko nkongononkoliseko nkongo
14:59 09 Jul 24
Best place ever,first the receptionist is so friendly and welcoming and the doctors are the best they make you feel comfortable before everything I would recommend them to anyone👌
Vuyisanani NgumbelaVuyisanani Ngumbela
14:38 01 Jul 24
The staff ,Dr Govender they are so friendly, they made me to feel very comfortable I would go there every time I want to do my teeth
Luvuyo MkonqoLuvuyo Mkonqo
13:56 11 Jun 24
Great experience, got a detailed consultation on braces from Dr Govender and Thembi. I like the fact that the Dr keeps explaining everything that she is about to do in the session. My daughter got a good lesson on how to brush and floss her teeth.
Emma EdwardsEmma Edwards
13:12 28 Mar 24
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Dr. Somtunzi and Dr. Govender at Every Smile Dentistry, and I am thoroughly impressed. Their professionalism and genuine care for patients made my entire root canal process a great experience. I'm so happy to have found my new dentistry home with them.
monde dyantyimonde dyantyi
11:10 16 Jul 23
I have been using Every Smile Dentistry for a while now. The service that I have received from the Doctors is very professional. Currently the only Dr that I use with them is Dr Somthunzi that is very patient with kids. Thank you for the excellent service Dr Somthunzi.
Janice MarriottJanice Marriott
13:54 15 Jun 23
If I could give 10 stars out of 5 - i would....the best experience i have had ever at a Dentis - Dr Somtumzi and her team are Angels-caring, professional, understanding and more....i am now 59 years old- had my 1st full set of upper dentures at the tender age of 19...which gives me 40 years of Denture Experience.....NEVER have i been treated with such dignity and grace - THANK YOU - in fact ....here are my 10 out of 5...**********
Malaika KuenaMalaika Kuena
11:40 10 Jun 23
Surgical tooth extraction was quick and painless. Thanks to Dr Mthunzi and her team in East London.
Bakhe GatyeniBakhe Gatyeni
13:09 02 Jun 23
Sesethu LeqelaSesethu Leqela
15:49 01 Jun 23
Today I went for braces consultation and the service that I received was beyond excellent,from the receptionist lady, dental nurse to Dr Zungu. He came up with many solutions on how we can tackle my issue and explained the process to the level of my understanding. Everyone at the branch is so welcoming 🙏 and super friendly/kind☺️. Please keep it up 💯!!!
Kimone BooysenKimone Booysen
08:29 16 May 23
The staff is sooo friendly. I have a big fear when it comes to dentists, but my dentist calmed me down so well and talked me through what she was going to do and what she was doing while busy. I had an infected tooth that she extracted. I felt no pain and it was over within seconds. I will definitely go back.
Soso MtiniSoso Mtini
14:01 21 Apr 23
We all dread appointments at the dentist but all my worries were put to rest by the lovely Dr Govender. She handled my tooth extraction with such great care and took time to explain the whole process. I appreciate her being so patient with me. Reception was warm and so helpful. Thank you to the whole team for being so professional and efficient.I can't wait to visit the dentist again!
ncediswa xeloncediswa xelo
11:24 12 Apr 23
Yesterday my daughter went for consultation. Wow she's lost of words explaining the Dr's friendliness, warm heart . It was our first visit I'm sold this is going to be our family dentist. Thank you all for your excellent customer service from the receptionist to assistants. Big up !!!!
Damaine JohnsonDamaine Johnson
09:13 20 Sep 22
Dentist knows what she's doing. I personally had my wisdom tooth extracted. Felt no pain at all during the extraction. Clean, professional and affordable. Thanks to the team at Every Smile Dentistry Selborne.
Leverne StrydomLeverne Strydom
17:54 26 Aug 21
I've been with the Dentistry for over two years now and I don't think I'll ever go to another dentist. Very clean and affordable too.I must say their customer service is exceptional!! From the receptionist to the Dr.I would recommend anybody to support Every Smile Dentistry!!
Bonisile NomanyaBonisile Nomanya
09:39 16 Oct 20
The service was exceptional! She explain every procedure throughout. She cleaned me and then removed the damaged one. I recommend Every Smile Dentistry.
Chesznokov ZunguChesznokov Zungu
11:31 20 Mar 20
I really appreciated the level of care and consideration from the staff. I experienced absolutely no pain and was kept comfortable at all times. I will definitely be going back🙂
Ziyanda CisheZiyanda Cishe
09:26 11 Apr 19
Today I had my teeth cleaned at Every Smile Dentistry. I just moved to East London so I was nervous about starting over with a new dentist. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming and the dentist was very gentle and attentive. I recommend Every Smile Dentistry to everyone looking for a pleasant experience at the dentist! 🙂
pumeza mnonopumeza mnono
13:47 12 Jul 24
I had a wonderful experience with them , their services are up to standard, i was welcomed by their friendly, professional n kind receptionist …big ups to dear you really know know how to serve people keep it up …if you’re looking for a good dentist in Umtata try them
Thobeka ThorhThobeka Thorh
12:46 03 Jul 24
The service was great, starting from the lady at the reception 👏 followed by 3 doctors namely Doc Ncube I had forgotten the others. But, their service was exceptional in terms of explaining, recommendations, etc.
Zethu NtloyaZethu Ntloya
15:08 29 Jun 24
The online booking system is probably useful in other branches but I’ve been disappointed twice in a space of less than a monthI initially made an online booking since they never seem to pick up their lines or get back to you ,I pulled strings to ensure I was there timeously and I was informed that “oh there must’ve been a miscommunication “ that meaning there was no communication about my appointment being canceledAnd the receptionist let me know minutes to my appointment I can’t be attended to.2nd appointment I made days in advance and I again pulled strings to honour my appointment today and as usual they sent the email reminder to remind me of my appointment at 9 am today …I leave work at 8 to make 8h30 for 9.Doors weren’t open by 9 and I called both their numbers to no reply and kept retrying and around to 10 …I make a call one more time just before I left cause I wasn’t sure what was happening .The receptionist answers and says “it’s a miscommunication issue.Our dr has an emergency and no one is coming in today “…no one cared to call and inform me of this as the expected 1st client of the day!A complete waste of my time twice !! I’ll escalate this
Omila MabandlaOmila Mabandla
12:16 27 Jun 24
Siphephelo GumbiSiphephelo Gumbi
23:14 23 Jun 24
Amazing service doctor was gentle and caring. Highly recommend.
Azile CisheAzile Cishe
11:47 30 May 24
Painless extraction, extremely professional service and great care taken. If you are in Umtata, give them a shout for all your dentistry needs...
Anodwa OvayoAnodwa Ovayo
13:03 15 Jan 24
What an amazing place, it's aesthetically pleasing, very clean and has a very welcoming receptionist. The staff are friendly and easy to communicate with. Initially, I was going to take my tooth out but was advised to go for a filling instead. Everything was explained and this showed me that the staff actually cares about their customers, this is great especially for people who are going to the dentist for the first time. I now feel good and more confident thanks to a great service from Every Smile Dentistry 🙏
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