Taking a tooth out is always the last option, and we will tell you honestly when a tooth can still be saved. Sometimes it genuinely cannot, and then the kindest thing is to remove it properly and get you comfortable.
Wisdom teeth are the common case. Dr Jennifer handles the difficult ones here rather than referring them on, which for most patients means it is dealt with sooner and closer to home.
What we handle
- Straightforward extraction of badly decayed or broken teeth
- Surgical removal of impacted and partly erupted wisdom teeth
- Removal of stubborn baby teeth that are blocking adult teeth
- Extractions to create space as part of orthodontic treatment
- Careful management for patients on blood thinners
- Clear written aftercare and a number to ring if you are worried
On the day
- 1Numb properly
We take the time to get you fully numb and we check before we start. You should feel pressure and movement, never sharpness.
- 2Steady and controlled
Extraction is about technique rather than force. Most patients are surprised by how undramatic it is.
- 3Settle the socket
We clean the site, place stitches where they help healing, and get the bleeding properly under control before you leave.
- 4Aftercare that works
Written instructions, pain relief advice, and what to watch for. Ring us if anything worries you, that is what we are here for.
Extractions and Wisdom Teeth questions
Do all wisdom teeth need to come out?
No. If they have come through straight, they are cleanable and they are not causing problems, the right answer is often to leave them alone and keep an eye on them. Removal is for teeth that are impacted, decaying, repeatedly infected or damaging the tooth in front.
How long is the recovery?
For a simple extraction most people are comfortable within two or three days. For surgical wisdom teeth, expect swelling that peaks around day two and settles over the following week. Plan a quiet weekend.
Will it hurt?
Not during. Local anaesthetic works very reliably for extractions. Afterwards you will be sore for a few days, which is normal and manageable with over the counter pain relief in most cases.
Can I go back to work the next day?
After a simple extraction, usually yes. After surgical wisdom teeth we would suggest at least a day off, and longer if your work is physical.
