Gentle care when a tooth needs to come out.

When a tooth can’t be saved, we’ll keep you comfortable throughout and talk you through your options for replacing it.

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Local anaesthetic
IV sedation available
Wisdom teeth

classics-dental-a-dentist-explaining-a-wisdom-tooth-x-ray-to-a-patient

On this page

Why a tooth might need removing

Your visit

Risks

Questions

Why a tooth might need
removing

Some common reasons

Decay or damage that’s too severe to repair
An infection that root canal treatment can’t fix
A wisdom tooth that’s stuck or causing trouble
Making room before orthodontic treatment
Advanced gum disease

Your visit

What to expect

1Taking a lookWe’ll take an X-ray, or a 3D scan if a wisdom tooth sits close to a nerve.

2Keeping you comfortableWe’ll numb the area well, or you can choose IV sedation.

3Removing the toothMost teeth come out simply. Some need a small surgical procedure.

4Looking after youYou’ll go home with clear aftercare instructions to help everything heal.

Thinking about replacing the tooth?

If the gap will affect your chewing or your smile, we’ll talk through implants, bridges and dentures with you before the tooth comes out.

Learn about implants

Risks and limitations

What to consider

Every treatment has benefits and risks. These are the main ones to know about.

Pain, swelling and bruising for a few days
Bleeding, which usually stops with pressure
Dry socket, a painful condition where the blood clot is lost
Infection, which is uncommon
For lower wisdom teeth, a small risk of numbness in the lip, chin or tongue, which is usually temporary

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. We’ll talk through the ones that apply to you before anything goes ahead, and you’re always welcome to get a second opinion.

Questions

Your questions, answered

Still wondering about something? Give us a call on 09 570 2823 or email reception@classicsdental.com, and we’ll get back to you.

Will it hurt?

The area will be completely numb, so you’ll feel some pressure but no pain. It’s normal to feel a bit sore for a few days afterwards.

How long does healing take?

The gum usually settles in one to two weeks. The bone underneath takes a little longer to fill in.

What is a dry socket?

It’s when the blood clot that forms in the socket comes away too early, which can be painful. Following your aftercare instructions and avoiding smoking helps prevent it.