We don’t like taking out teeth but sometimes teeth are non salvageable and need to be removed due to decay, gum disease or trauma. Having a tooth removed is called a ‘tooth extraction’. Prior to having a tooth removed, the dentist will take radiographs (x-rays) of the tooth that needs to be removed to look at the position of the tooth, the bone, nerves and blood vessels around the tooth. The practitioner administers local anaesthetic that will reduce your discomfort and ensure that you are numb throughout the procedure meaning you won’t feel a thing! Once the area around the tooth is numb, the tooth is loosened with movements and pressure. Sometimes however, these teeth are stuck or can be quite difficult to remove with just pressure and movements alone and so minor oral surgery is required to have it removed.
Just remember, that there are many options to replace the tooth that has been removed such as dentures, bridges and implants. These options can be discussed with you during your appointment.
