When does a tooth need to come out?
Tooth removal, or extraction, is sometimes the healthiest option for your mouth. A tooth may need to come out if it is badly decayed, infected, or too weak to hold a filling or crown. Teeth are also removed to make space for orthodontic treatment, or when wisdom teeth cause problems.
We always look at other options first. If removal is right for you, we’ll explain why and what happens, and take it at your pace. Our practice is in Lewisham, close to Greenwich and Blackheath.
Why have a tooth removed?
- It should ease the pain the tooth has been causing.
- It removes a source of infection from your mouth.
- It helps protect the teeth and gums around it.
- It can make room for teeth to be straightened with braces or aligners.
Could the tooth be saved? Root canal treatment or a crown may be an option. We’ll go through them with you first.
Replacing a removed tooth
What happens
Assessment
We examine the tooth, take X-rays and check your medical history. If the tooth is complex, we may take a 3D scan.
Your options
We explain why the tooth should come out and what the alternatives are. You decide when you’re ready.
Removing the tooth
The area is numbed with local anaesthetic. You may feel pressure, but you shouldn’t feel pain. We talk you through each step. IV sedation is available if you’re nervous.
Aftercare
We give you clear aftercare advice to help the area heal and ease any soreness. We also talk about replacing the tooth if you need to.
Tooth removal at SmileUp
- Unhurried appointments, with time to explain and answer your questions
- IV sedation available for nervous patients
- Problem wisdom teeth? See wisdom tooth removal
- Open six days · Mon, Tue until 7:30pm
