Tooth removal surgery at The London Clinic

The dental surgeons at The London Clinic perform tooth extraction under local anaesthetic. However, support and other anaesthetic techniques are available for people with anxiety or dental phobia. The procedure takes 20-40 minutes.

The dentist uses a fine needle to inject local anaesthetic into the gum around your tooth. They will ensure the area is totally numb before beginning the extraction procedure.

Your surgeon will carefully loosen your tooth using specially-designed instruments. You may feel pushing and pulling, but it should not hurt. They will then remove the tooth and may place a dressing pack into the space to stop any bleeding.

Sometimes the surgeon may need to make an incision in the gum to expose the tooth, they may have to drill into the tooth, or they may need to separate the tooth from the surrounding bone.

These procedures can take a little longer but are normal, and the experienced dentists at The London Clinic are highly skilled in all types of dental extraction. Recovery and aftercare

Most people can go home on the day of extraction surgery. The London Clinic's team will provide support as you recover.

It's essential to keep the wound clean to prevent infection. Avoid mouthwashes or rinses and hot food and drink for at least 24 hours. Don’t poke, prod or brush the wound for 1 to 2 days. Following that, rinse your mouth gently with hot, salty water four times a day for the next two days.

To reduce the risk of bleeding and bruising, avoid lifting, exercise, alcohol and hot baths for one week. Choose soft foods until you can chew using your other teeth. Take regular over-the-counter painkillers, apply ice packs to the jaw to reduce swelling and sleep with an extra pillow to help excess fluid drain away.

Your dentist will provide individual guidance about returning to work. If you have a desk job, you may be able to get back to work in 1-2 days, people who perform heavy manual work may need to take up to a week off. The London Clinic team will always be on hand if you have any problems or worries.

What are the complications of tooth removal?

All surgery has risks. The dental surgeons and The London Clinic team are dedicated to reducing complications and helping your recovery. Problems with pain, bleeding, and infection can happen after any operation.

Specific issues with tooth extraction surgery include a dry socket, where the wound doesn’t heal well, damage to other teeth, nerve injury, jaw injury, sinus problems and retained roots. Speak to your dentist if you have any concerns. They will always take time to discuss the pros and cons of the procedure and answer any questions.