When a tooth has to go
We always try to save teeth where we can — but sometimes extraction is the kindest option:
when decay or a fracture is beyond repair, when gum disease has
loosened a tooth beyond rescue, for troublesome wisdom teeth, or to relieve severe infection.
What happens?
- The area is fully numbed with local anaesthetic — you'll feel pressure
and movement during the extraction, but no pain.
- The tooth is loosened gently and removed. Simple extractions often take just a few minutes.
- You bite on a gauze pad to form a healthy blood clot in the socket.
- We give you full aftercare instructions before you leave.
Nervous? You're in good hands — read what our patients say about difficult extractions on
our testimonials page, and see our
nervous patients page.
Aftercare — the first 24 hours are key
- Protect the clot. Don't rinse, spit forcefully, suck straws or poke the socket
for 24 hours — losing the clot causes painful "dry socket".
- No smoking for at least 48 hours (ideally longer) — smoking is the
biggest cause of dry socket.
- Avoid alcohol, exercise and hot drinks on the day.
- Eat soft, cool food on the other side of your mouth.
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen as needed (not aspirin, which encourages bleeding).
- From day two: rinse gently with warm salt water after meals for a week.
Bleeding restarts? Bite firmly on a rolled clean handkerchief for
15–20 minutes sitting upright. If it won't stop, or pain worsens after 2–3 days, contact
us on
0141 554 0499.
Replacing the tooth
Once healed, gaps can be filled with a bridge or
denture — we'll talk through your options.
