Surgical Tooth Extraction

Why might I need a surgical extraction?

There are several reasons why a tooth may need to be extracted rather than restored:

Severe decay – When a cavity has progressed too far for a filling or crown to provide a lasting solution, and infection has reached the root, extraction may be the most effective way to resolve pain and prevent further problems.

Severe periodontitis can cause significant bone loss around a tooth, leaving it too loose or too compromised to save.

A badly broken or fractured tooth – If a tooth has broken below the gum line or fractured in a way that cannot be reliably restored, removal is sometimes the better long-term choice.

Impacted or problematic wisdom teeth – Wisdom teeth that are partially erupted, growing at an angle or causing repeated infection often need to be removed before they damage neighbouring teeth.

Failed root canal treatment – Where root canal therapy has not resolved an infection and further treatment is not appropriate, extraction may be recommended.

To prepare for orthodontic treatment – In some cases, a tooth may need to be removed to create space for teeth to move into a better position.

Pre-implant planning – If a failing tooth needs to be removed before a dental implant is placed, the extraction and any bone grafting will be planned together for the best possible outcome.

What happens during the procedure?

Your comfort is the priority throughout. Here is what typically happens:

1. We review your X-rays and confirm the treatment plan with you
2. Local anaesthetic is administered to numb the area fully: we always wait until you are comfortable before proceeding
3. For a simple extraction, the tooth is gently loosened and removed
4. For a surgical extraction, a small incision is made, the tooth is carefully removed (sometimes in sections), and the area is closed with dissolvable stitches
5. Gauze is placed to encourage clotting and we discuss your aftercare instructions before you leave

Most straightforward extractions take between 20 and 45 minutes. More complex surgical cases may take a little longer.

Looking after yourself after an extraction

Good aftercare makes a significant difference to how quickly and comfortably you heal.

In the first 24 hours: avoid rinsing, spitting or drinking through a straw as these can dislodge the blood clot forming in the socket. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and very hot food or drinks. Rest and eat soft foods on the opposite side of your mouth.

From day two onwards: rinse gently with warm salty water several times a day to keep the area clean. Mild pain and swelling over the first few days is normal and should gradually improve.

Watch for dry socket: if you experience a sharp increase in pain three to four days after the extraction, rather than improvement, this may indicate dry socket (where the clot has been lost, exposing the bone). Contact us promptly if this happens: it is easily treated.

We provide aftercare instructions after every extraction and are always available to answer questions.

Want to support faster recovery?

For patients having surgical extractions, particularly where the extraction is complex or is being planned alongside a future implant, we can offer PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) therapy at the same appointment.

PRP uses a small sample of your own blood, concentrated to promote tissue repair and reduce post-operative swelling. It is applied directly to the extraction socket before closure. There is no extra appointment required.

Why patients choose Time Dental for surgical extractions?

Specialist-level surgical experience — Dr Farzad Azimi, our principal dentist, holds a Master’s degree in Dental Implantology and is currently undergoing specialist oral surgery training at UCL Eastman Dental Hospital. Surgical extractions (including complex and pre-implant cases) are a core part of what we do.
Sedation available — We offer conscious sedation for nervous patients or complex procedures, so you never have to face an extraction feeling unprepared.
Joined-up treatment planning — If your extraction is part of a bigger picture — pre-implant, pre-orthodontic, or following failed root canal treatment — we’ll coordinate the full plan from the outset.
Honest, unhurried consultations — We take time to explain your options clearly, including whether saving the tooth is still possible, before recommending extraction.
PRP-enhanced healing available — For patients who want the best possible recovery, PRP therapy can be incorporated on the day of your procedure.