Teeth Extraction
Professional care for your long-term oral health
Teeth Extraction
Professional care for your long-term oral health
How tooth extraction can protect your smile
Sometimes, keeping your smile healthy means saying goodbye to a tooth. Our caring dentists at Alma Dental Surgery do this gently, with your comfort and health as our top priorities. Every patient receives careful, considered attention from our team of professionals. We carry out a thorough examination supported by digital X-rays, so we know exactly what’s going on before recommending an extraction.
Modern dental techniques mean removing a tooth can be straightforward and as comfortable as possible. Whether it’s a baby tooth that hasn’t come through, a tricky wisdom tooth, or a tooth that’s causing pain or infection, we’ll guide you through the process and make sure you’re at ease. Local anaesthetic or sedation can be used if you need it, so you can relax while we take care of your teeth.
At our North Perth clinic, we take the time to answer your questions, explain everything clearly, and make sure your visit is smooth and stress-free.
What is tooth extraction?
Tooth extraction is the process of carefully removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. Preserving as much of your natural teeth whenever possible is always our priority at Alma Dental Surgery, but sometimes a tooth is too damaged, decayed, misaligned, or causing other issues, and removal is the safest option.
Extractions can be simple or surgical. A simple extraction is usually done on a tooth that is fully visible in the mouth and can be more gently removed with instruments. A surgical extraction may be needed for teeth that are impacted, broken, or haven’t fully erupted. This type of procedure can involve making a small incision in the gum or removing a small portion of bone to safely access the tooth as comfortably as possible.
Modern dental techniques can make extractions more comfortable than what past generations experienced. We strive for stress-free extractions by using optimal tools and carefully selected techniques to maximise comfort and safety. Alma Dental Surgery is committed to protecting surrounding teeth and tissues, minimising discomfort, and promoting quicker healing so you can get back to enjoying your smile.
When is tooth extraction needed?
Removing a tooth might feel like a loss, but it’s truly a win when your oral health needs it done. Extractions are only recommended when necessary, and we will carefully assess your situation before proceeding. Here are the most common reasons a tooth may need to be removed:
1. Baby tooth extractions
Sometimes children’s baby teeth don’t fall out on their own. This can block the permanent teeth from coming through properly, leading to crowding or misalignment. Removing these baby teeth at the right time allows adult teeth to come in straight, and helps prevent future orthodontic issues.
2. Wisdom tooth extractions
Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, often don’t have enough space to grow in correctly. Impacted wisdom teeth—those trapped under the gum or growing at an angle—can cause pain, swelling, infection, or even damage neighbouring teeth. Extracting them early can prevent these complications before they become serious.
3. Orthodontic tooth extractions
In some cases, teeth may need to be removed to make room for braces or clear aligners. Removing select teeth can relieve crowding, improve bite alignment, and ensure that orthodontic treatment is more effective and predictable.
4. Decayed or damaged teeth
When a tooth is severely decayed, fractured, or damaged beyond repair, extraction may be necessary. Removing the tooth prevents infection from spreading and protects the surrounding teeth. Extractions can also prepare your mouth for restorative treatments like crowns, bridges, or implants.
5. Extractions for implant preparation
If a tooth cannot be saved, removing it may be the first step before placing a dental implant. Extraction ensures the site is healthy, free of infection, and ready to support the implant so it can integrate securely with the jawbone.
6. Infected tooth removal
Severe infections, abscesses, or persistent pain may require a tooth extraction to protect your overall health. Removing the source of infection helps prevent the infection from spreading and relieves pain, allowing your mouth to heal properly.
Signs that a tooth may need extraction
Extraction can be helpful for teeth which are causing problems or are at risk of causing further issues. Naturally, this is only done when other less-invasive solutions are less-ideal. If you experience these signs and symptoms, get your dentist to check whether extraction and/or another treatment may be needed:
Persistent toothache or sensitivity – Ongoing pain when eating, drinking, or even at rest can indicate deep decay, infection, or nerve problems.
Visible decay or broken teeth – Teeth that are badly decayed, cracked, or fractured may no longer be repairable.
Recurrent infections or abscesses – Frequent infections or pus around a tooth indicate it may need to be removed to protect your overall health.
Swollen, red, or bleeding gums – Inflammation or bleeding may be a sign of infection or gum disease affecting the tooth.
Crowding or misalignment – Teeth that are pushing against others or are out of place may need removal, especially before orthodontic treatment.
Difficulty chewing or biting – Pain or discomfort when eating can be a sign that a tooth is damaged or infected.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to see a dentist promptly. Early assessment and treatment can prevent further damage, reduce the risk of complications, and make procedures simpler.
What happens during a tooth extraction?
Knowledge is power, and knowing what’s coming up can help you feel in control, comfortable, and prepared. While every case is different, most tooth extractions follow these steps:
1. Consultation and examination
Before the procedure, we will carefully examine your mouth and may take digital X-rays. This helps them understand the tooth’s position, the shape of its roots, and the surrounding bone, ensuring the extraction is safe and precise.
2. Anaesthesia
Local anaesthetic is used to numb the area around the tooth, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. For patients who feel anxious, sedation options may also be available to help you relax.
3. Loosening the tooth
For a simple extraction, we will gently loosen the tooth using dental instruments called elevators. This step separates the tooth from the surrounding ligaments in the socket.
4. Removing the tooth
Once loosened, the tooth is removed with dental forceps. In surgical extractions—often needed for impacted or broken teeth—a small incision may be made in the gum, a little bone may be removed, or the tooth may be divided into sections to make removal easier.
5. Cleaning the area
After the tooth is removed, the socket is cleaned to remove any debris or infection and to prepare the site for proper healing.
6. Controlling bleeding
Gauze is placed over the extraction site to help form a blood clot, which is essential for healing and reducing the risk of complications.
7. Post-extraction care
We will explain how to care for the extraction site at home. This usually includes:
- Managing discomfort with pain relief as advised
- Eating soft foods for the first few days
- Maintaining oral hygiene carefully around the area
- Avoiding habits that can disturb healing, such as smoking or drinking through a straw
Speedy recoveries which reduce the risks of infection or complications like dry socket rely on you following your dentist’s advice. At Alma Dental Surgery, we will gently help you understand in clear terms what you need to do for the quickest recovery possible.
Risks and complications
While tooth extraction is generally safe, there are potential risks, including:
- Bleeding or swelling at the extraction site
- Infection
- Dry socket (delayed healing due to loss of blood clot)
- Nerve injury (rare, mostly with lower jaw teeth)
- Sinus issues (mostly with upper back teeth)
We will explain these risks and provide guidance to minimise them. Following post-extraction care is important for a smooth recovery.
Precise care for troubled teeth
There’s no point delaying yourself finding relief from tooth pain, crowding, or other dental issues. Don’t put it off. Our friendly team at Alma Dental Surgery in North Perth is here to guide you through every step, from a thorough check-up to a comfortable extraction and recovery. We make the process simple, caring, and as stress-free as possible so you feel at ease.
Call us today on (08) 9227 6468 to book a consultation. It’s time to discover optimal oral health with comfort and confidence.