A tooth extraction is usually the last resort in dental treatment. They may be a common dental procedure but patients can, quite reasonably, be concerned about the process. We aim to ensure the process is painless and that you feel comfortable and confident throughout.
There are several reason why we may have to extract a tooth:
There are two types of tooth extraction:
Simple extractions
These are extractions performed on teeth that are visible in the mouth and are usually carried out in the dental chair while the patient is awake.
If your dentist recommends a simple extraction, they will administer a local anaesthetic injection to numb the area around the tooth. They will then use pressure to loosen the tooth before removing it.
Sometimes the tooth may break during the extraction. This is nothing to worry about. The dentist can usually remove the other fragment of tooth wit no problem.
However, if the fragment of tooth is too difficult to reach, the dentist may have to carry out a surgical extraction. There are also cases where the dentist can safely leave the fragment in place.
Does it hurt?
No. What you will feel is a lot of pressure on the area, but there should be no pain.
How long will it take to recover?
Recovery times can take a few days, but the area will not be completely healed for several weeks.
In the meantime, you should take special care of your mouth to prevent infection and allow the area to heal properly.
Will my private health insurance cover the cost?
If you have private health insurance, it may cover some of the cost of your extraction, Depending on your level of cover. Waiting periods and annual limits apply for health fund holders for under 12 months.
Surgical Extractions
Surgical extractions are performed when teeth are not easily to access because they have broken off under the gum line or only partially erupted. Wisdom teeth are also usually surgically removed as they are often still beneath the gum, only partially erupted or impacted.
How is it done?
Your dentist will discuss whether local anaesthetic or intravenous sedation are best for your situation. The extraction is still performed while you lie in one of our comfortable chairs and will be over before you know it.
What happens?
Surgical extractions involve making an incision on the gum to reach the tooth. Some bone may also need to be removed during the procedure in order to reach the tooth. Your dentist will discuss this with you before your surgery. The process then goes ahead in the same way as a simple extraction. The gum will require some stitches because of the incision.
Recovery time is usually longer than a simple extraction. You can expect some swelling and will probably need the rest for at least 24 hours afterwards.
Your mouth care will be the same as for simple extractions but you may need to extend your soft food diet and pain relief for a few more days.
Will my private health insurance cover the cost?
Surgical extraction costs vary, depending on the type of anaesthesia used and how complex the extraction process is.
It’s advisable to check with your health care fund to see what is covered.