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Dental Extractions

At Truly Dental we understand that having a tooth removed can be a cause of great concern for many patients.

Our skilled clinical team will always explore and advise you of every possible avenue to preserve your natural teeth, utilising tried and tested procedures to save seriously infected or decayed teeth such as Root Canal Treatment, or using beautiful, completely life-like Dental Crowns to build up and restore badly broken-down teeth – all performed with only the latest in modern dental tools, materials, and techniques.  

However, when all other options to retain your original tooth have been exhausted, a tooth extraction may become inevitable. If the damage to your tooth is too severe or its chance of surviving after a preservation treatment is too low, our expert team will be able to quickly and skilfully extract the tooth, relieving any pain you are experiencing. You may be assured they have fully gone through all options with you, including a clear future plan for replacing your missing tooth post-extraction, and put any worries you have completely to rest.  

A strong dental anaesthetic will be used to ensure you are completely numb before any treatment begins so that your procedure is as comfortable and pain free as possible. For especially nervous patients we do also provide at Truly Dental for your treatment to be carried out under Dental Sedation. This form of conscious sedative ensures that you will be entirely relaxed throughout the procedure - the time will pass by almost unnoticed, and you will have little to no memory of the treatment you have just undergone. Even patients who thought they could never sit in a dental chair again can finally get back to enjoying life pain-free, as they can have the treatment they need carried out without anxiety or stress. 

Why might I need a dental extraction?

Why might I need a dental extraction?

Your dentist will only recommend proceeding with an extraction of your tooth in situations where it is fully necessary, and the natural tooth cannot be salvaged, such as: 

  • Your tooth is heavily broken down and there is insufficient natural structure remaining to repair it with a filling or crown 
  • You have a fracture or crack in your tooth (or multiple breaks in the same tooth) that cannot be repaired
  • The nerve of your tooth has died or become infected, and you don’t wish to have Root Canal Treatment
  • You have severe periodontal disease (advanced disease of the gums)
  • You are undergoing orthodontic treatment and need to have a tooth removed to make space for straightening your teeth 
  • Your wisdom teeth are growing in at misaligned angles and beginning or predicted to cause problems for your overall bite or the surrounding teeth.

Benefits of Tooth Extraction

Benefits of Tooth Extraction

  • Remove infection stemming from decay or bacteria at the source 
  • Resolve pain caused by damage, decay, and infection quickly and simply
  • Prevent spread of bacteria throughout the body and protect your overall health 
  • Safeguard your surrounding teeth by removing the broken, loose, or infected tooth
  • Tooth extraction can be followed up with a number of successful and effective restoration procedures, such as dental implants, dental bridges, and dentures, to replace your compromised, defective tooth and fill the resultant gap, completely restoring the function, durability, and appearance of your smile

What to Expect When Having a Tooth Extraction

What to Expect When Having a Tooth Extraction

Initial examination 

Whether you book a consultation with Truly Dental due to a dental emergency (for example accidental injury or trauma to your teeth), because you are concerned about new or persistent tooth pain or sensitivity, or if your appointment is for a routine dental check-up – your dentist will carry out a comprehensive dental exam and investigate the root of your problem and assess what damage has occurred. This stage will involve your dentist taking X-rays to assess your teeth and bone levels, allowing them to accurately determine the complexity of your case and options for extraction. 

Dental extraction is often viewed as a last resort for patients, and our highly experienced team always treat it as such. However in some cases of severe damage, fracture, or infection of a tooth, extraction is the only option. This initial consultation is your opportunity to have any questions or concerns you have addressed. Your dentist will always discuss with you any alternative to tooth extraction if it is possible in your case (such as Root Canal Treatment) in addition to the options for replacing the spaces in your smile you may have after extraction – Dental Implants, Bridges and Dentures are all successful and unobtrusive methods to replace a singular or multiple missing teeth. If you are a nervous patient or are hesitant of undergoing dental procedures, please discuss this with your dentist at this time, as at our clinic we do also offer for any of our treatments to be undertaken under Dental Sedation, allowing even surgical procedures to take place in total comfort and relaxation.

After assessing your situation, needs, and preferences with you, your dentist will prepare a detailed treatment plan for both your extraction procedure and follow-up tooth replacement treatments, which will include an accurate estimated time of completion for each stage and a breakdown of all costs involved. You will then be scheduled in for the extraction procedure itself, which can often be accommodated in emergency cases on the same day as your initial consultation if desired, dependant on availability and your unique situation. 

If your X-Rays revealed a more complex root system of your tooth, for example, or in many cases involving wisdom tooth extraction where the tooth is more likely to be partially buried under the gumline, you will require a surgical tooth extraction, and these appointments are scheduled at Truly Dental with our dental surgery specialists. 

Tooth extraction 

Using a highly effective local anaesthetic your dentist will numb the area so that the entire procedure will be completely pain-free. The most you will feel is some gentle pushing as your tooth is removed. 

If your tooth anatomy is more complex and the extraction predicted to be a more difficult case, or in most instances of impacted wisdom teeth, you will need to undergo a surgical extraction. In this case, your dentist will at this stage make a small incision into your gum to expose more of your tooth. You may also experience some vibration during a surgical extraction, in addition to the sensation of pressure.

In more complex cases, your tooth will be divided into smaller sections and each will be removed one at a time. Again, you will not feel any pain during this procedure due to the anaesthetic, and the sensation will be similar to having a filling. If you are having a surgical extraction of a tooth, this process can take approximately 30 minutes. 

Once your tooth has been fully removed, some dissolvable stitches and a soft packing will be placed to maximise healing of your gum. 

Aftercare and Tooth Replacements

Following the completion of the extraction procedure, your dentist will explain fully all aftercare and recovery instructions to you, as well as letting you know when you should schedule your next appointment with the clinic for any tooth replacement and restoration procedures you have discussed with them.

It is common to experience some discomfort for a few days after extraction. However this usually lasts for 2 to 3 days only, and can be effectively managed with over-the-counter painkillers. The numbness caused by the anaesthetic used during your procedure will wear off after 4 hours or so. If you have opted to receive this treatment under dental IV sedation, you will be required to have a responsible adult of your choice escort you from the clinic following your appointment, and to rest at home under their care for the 24 hours after treatment, to allow the sedative to completely leave your system. 

Depending on the health and quality of your jawbone, determined by dental X-ray at your initial assessment, it may be possible to proceed with certain restorative procedures sooner. However on average your dentist will usually recommend a period of healing of at least 3 months for the extraction site and bone to fully recover, before beginning the discussed next phase of your treatment. Dental implants, bridges and dentures are all effectively used to replace a single or multiple missing teeth and address the functional and aesthetic issues which are associated with tooth loss. 

Questions? Answers

Why would I need to have my tooth extracted?

There are many reasons as to why someone may need to have their tooth removed. At Truly Dental our expert clinical team will do all we can to save your tooth but sometimes this isn’t possible. 

You may need an extraction if your tooth is: 

  • Badly decayed and broken down 
  • Severely cracked or fractured 
  • Very loose from severe periodontal (gum) disease
  • Damaged after a dental trauma 
  • Overcrowding your mouth, making straightening your teeth effectively with braces or other orthodontic treatments to align your bite impossible 
  • An impacted wisdom tooth, that is, growing in at an abnormal angle or unable to fully erupt out of the gumline due to lack of space 
Why do I need to have X-rays taken before a tooth extraction?

Your dentist may require you to have a number of X-rays taken prior to your tooth removal, to ensure that they can fully plan for your extraction. From an X-ray your dentist will be able to predict how difficult your extraction will be based on the full and accurate picture of your tooth anatomy and jawbone, and if there is any risk of nerve damage based on the positioning of your tooth. It is vital to be aware of any complicating factors such as these in advance so that your dentist can plan their approach accordingly to ensure a successful outcome of your procedure.

What can I do about the space in my smile after a tooth extraction?

Unfortunately, losing a tooth can come with a range of unideal consequences which can have a negative impact on a patient’s quality of life – your speech, the way you chew, the appearance of your smile, and your facial structure can all change after a tooth extraction. The significance of these outcomes is the reason we at Truly Dental will always recommend and try every alternative route we possibly can, and will only ever advise extraction of your tooth when all other options are exhausted. 

However, if a tooth extraction is necessary, there are a number of highly effective and adaptable treatments available to replace the space or spaces left in your smile following extraction, and restore your original smile. Your dentist will be able to discuss with you the best way to replace your tooth that is suited to your smile goals, specific dental care needs, and lifestyle; including: Dental Implants, Dental Bridges and Dentures. 

Is it painful to have a tooth extracted?

No, the extraction procedure is always carried out under local anaesthetic, and your dentist will ensure that you are completely numb before they begin to remove your tooth. The entire procedure is totally pain free – at most you will feel some pushing and pressure, similar to the sensation of getting a filling. 

For nervous patients or those who, for one reason or another, are unable to undergo dental procedures under local anaesthetic alone, we also offer tooth extraction under Dental Sedation. This means you will be able to have your tooth removed while you are in a completely calm and relaxed state, without being aware of the time passing and with no unpleasant memories of the procedure you will have undergone by the time the sedation wears off. 

It is normal in the days following an extraction, to experience some pain, swelling, bruising or bleeding of the area. However this can all be effectively managed with over-the-counter pain relief medication and carefully following the aftercare instructions given to you by your dentist following the procedure. 

How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?

The time needed for recovery will depend on whether you have undergone a routine or a surgical tooth extraction. 

Although in both cases the post-procedural symptoms are similar, you can expect any discomfort, swelling, or tenderness to last for longer and to be a little more severe after a surgical extraction. 

It is common for any swelling, bruising or discomfort to last for 1 to 2 days in the case of a routine extraction, and between 3 and 5 days following a surgical extraction (including surgical extraction of wisdom teeth). However, if you follow the instructions given to you regarding pain relief, caring for the surgical site, and suitable rest and nutrition, you will find the entire recovery process very manageable. 

Will I need to take time off work after a tooth extraction?

It is not generally required to take time off work, however many people find they will recover much faster if they have 1 to 2 days to rest at home following their procedure. 

If you have had your tooth removed while under dental sedation you must not return to work in the 24 hours after treatment, as this is the length of time it takes for the medication to fully exit your system.

Will I be able to eat normally after a tooth extraction?

It can be difficult to eat hard, crunchy, or chewy foods for a number of days after a tooth extraction. It is best to eat soft foods, such as soups, yoghurt, or smoothies, and to chew on the opposite side of your mouth to the extraction site, until the tenderness has subsided.

We recommend that you don’t eat at all for 4 hours approximately following your procedure, or until the numbness caused by the local anaesthetic has completely worn off. Otherwise there is a risk of you accidentally biting or burning your cheek or tongue. 

Will I have any swelling after a tooth extraction?

Yes, it is very common to experience some swelling after having your tooth removed – particularly so if you have undergone a surgical extraction. Depending on the specifics of your case, your dentist will provide you with a post-procedural prescription for pain relief, anti-inflammatories or both as indicated, although in some routine extractions many patients find that over-the-counter medication is sufficient for them. If you take the medication as directed by your dentist, in addition to following the other aftercare instructions given to you following your procedure, your swelling will be much milder and will resolve faster than if you don’t.

What are the risks involved with tooth extraction?

The most common risks involved in tooth removal - whether routine or involving a minor surgical procedure - are pain, bleeding, bruising, and swelling. These are all symptoms which are easily managed with pain-relieving medication and appropriate rest and nutrition following your procedure. 

With the removal of lower teeth there is a very small risk of nerve damage, particularly following surgical extraction, which can either be temporary or permanent, with temporary nerve damage being more common. This presents as a numbness or a tingling sensation in your tongue, lower lip and chin, and can last for up to 6 months, or in far rarer cases can become permanent. 

Your dentist will assess your individual risk prior to beginning any treatment, including the taking of dental X-rays, and a plan of approach will be put in place to ensure that this risk is minimal. 

Should I choose Dental Sedation?

If you feel nervous at the very thought of dental treatment, then Dental Sedation may be the ideal solution for you.

At our clinic, we provide for any procedure to be offered to patients under dental sedation administered intravenously (through the vein). This allows us to provide you with a very precise dosage of sedative medication, assuring you a treatment experience which is both freed from anxiety and extremely safe. 

Dental IV sedation, sometimes called ‘conscious sedation’, allows for you to be awake throughout the procedure but in a drowsy, calm, and completely relaxed state – allowing you to gain the calming benefits of sedation without the much longer recovery time and greater risk of side effects of going under general anaesthetic. 

Under dental IV sedation, time will appear to pass by very quickly and in an almost dream-like manner, and following the procedure you will have very little memory of the treatment you have just undergone. Your dentist will be more than happy to discuss dental sedation with you at your initial consultation, to answer any questions you have and see if this method is right for you. IV sedation can be the answer for many patients who may have once thought certain dental treatments impossible, transforming previously dreaded visits into pleasant, manageable experiences; meaning you will never have to say no to the treatment you need again!

Why should I have my tooth removed at Truly Dental?

All of our dentists have undergone additional comprehensive training in tooth removal, in addition to our specialist practitioners in Dental Surgery, ensuring that no matter how complex your case, your experience will be efficient, painless, and uncomplicated. 

Our modern state-of-the-art clinic puts the best in high-tech equipment and techniques at your service, combined with our teams’ dedication to the highest standards of patient care, we promise to put you at ease from the moment you set foot through the door.

At Truly Dental we have a selection of options available to our patients to provide a calm relaxing state before teeth are extracted, either as routine or surgically in the case of complex or impacted cases. Sedation, along with the adept and gentle hands of our compassionate dentists will ensure that your experience will be comfortable. 

How much does getting a tooth extracted cost?

At Truly Dental the cost of a tooth extraction begins at €120. The cost of your extraction procedure will vary depending on the condition of the tooth being removed and the method of extraction. 

Some teeth, such as wisdom teeth will require surgical removal – as this procedure is more complex and specialised than a routine extraction the cost starts at €190. 

Your dentist will be able to give you an accurate quote during your initial consultation for not only the tooth extraction, but also a detailed breakdown of your full treatment plan including the costs of any restorations or replacements discussed with you to follow-up the removal of the damaged tooth. 

At Truly Dental we offer multiple payment plans to suit all treatment needs, lifestyles and budgets. One of our available plans allows you to pay for your treatment monthly, with absolutely no down payment required and at 0% interest. 

Suffering from severe tooth decay, new or persistent tooth pain, or in need of an emergency dental appointment following accident or injury? 

Call (0)1 525 2670 or book your initial consultation with one of our experienced dentists to get out of pain and discuss Tooth Extraction today

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