What happens during a tooth extraction?
Having a tooth removed can feel worrying, but it’s a very common and straightforward procedure. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more relaxed and prepared.
Before the procedure, your dentist will:
- Examine the tooth and surrounding area
- Take X-rays if needed
- Numb the area with local anaesthetic
You may feel pressure during the extraction, but you should not feel pain. The tooth is gently loosened and removed.
For more complex cases (such as broken teeth or wisdom teeth), a surgical approach may be required.
What to expect after the extraction
It’s normal to experience:
- Mild discomfort or soreness
- Slight swelling
- Light bleeding for a few hours
These symptoms usually improve within a few days.
Aftercare: Do’s and Don’ts
✅ Do:
- Bite on the gauze provided for 20–30 minutes
- Rest for the remainder of the day
- Take pain relief as advised (e.g. paracetamol or ibuprofen)
- Eat soft foods like yoghurt, soup, or mashed potatoes
- Keep the area clean (gentle brushing around the site)
❌ Don’t:
- Rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours
- Use a straw or spit forcefully
- Smoke or vape
- Drink alcohol
- Eat hard, crunchy, or spicy foods
These can disturb the blood clot and lead to complications like dry socket.
When should you contact your dentist?
Get in touch if you notice:
- Severe or worsening pain after 2–3 days
- Persistent bleeding
- Swelling that increases instead of improving
- Signs of infection (fever, bad taste, pus)
Healing time
Most people feel back to normal within a few days, but full healing of the gum can take a few weeks.
Following the aftercare advice carefully helps ensure a smooth recovery.
Call to Action:
If you’ve been advised to have a tooth removed, don’t worry — we’ll guide you through every step and make the process as comfortable as possible.
