Who would benefit from a tooth extraction?

Tooth extraction could be recommended for a variety of reasons. The most common are: In an overcrowded mouth. Tooth removal may be required before orthodontic treatments can begin. Orthodontic treatment aims to achieve the correct alignment for teeth, and sometimes tooth extraction can provide the space required to allow orthodontic appliances to achieve their goals. When the tooth is severely decayed or traumatised beyond repair. The tooth may become at risk of infection, and — if the dentist is unable to repair the tooth — extraction may be the most suitable treatment to prevent any infection from spreading. Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the bones and soft tissues that surround and support the teeth. In some cases of severe periodontal disease, the teeth may become loose, infected or painful — and tooth removal may be the only suitable treatment.

What are the complications of tooth removal?

All surgery has its risks. Problems with pain, bleeding, bruising, swelling, numbness and infection can happen after any operation. One of the common complications is dry socket — this is where the blood clot has come out of the socket, leaving it open for bacteria to get in and create an infection. This results in pain continuing and sometimes worsening a few days after the extraction. If this happens, we would ask you to return to the practice for the dentist to assess and place a dressing into the tooth socket to aid the healing and fight off the infection. Other complications include damage to adjacent teeth, nerve injury, jaw injury, sinus problems and retained roots. If you have any concerns, we advise you to speak to your dentist; they will always take time to assess you and provide you with answers to any questions you have.

What should I eat after a tooth extraction?

After a dental extraction, it’s common to feel pain or discomfort which can make chewing certain foods challenging. Soft foods and liquids will be easiest to eat for the first 2-3 days. Consider the temperature of the food, too; very hot or very cold foods may cause soreness in the area. Foods like lukewarm soup, smoothies or scrambled eggs will reduce the risk of discomfort when eating after having a tooth extracted.

What options do I have for the space left after a dental extraction?

There are several options for tooth replacement. Your dentist will discuss the options with you at your assessment appointment. Options usually include dentures, bridges or implants.

Rodericks Dental Partners Treatments Dental Extraction

General Treatment

Dental Extraction

Extraction quickly relieves the discomfort of a problem tooth and creates space in your jaw if your mouth is overcrowded.

Reviewed by: Puja Klaire, Bchd Pg Cert Medical Education, Lead Clinical Advisor at Rodericks Dental Partners. Review date: 27th July 2026

What is tooth extraction?

Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth by a dental professional. It’s an option of last resort – your dentist will always look to save a tooth if possible. But if it’s too badly damaged or decayed, causing you pain today or likely to pose problems in the future, extraction may be the most suitable treatment.

Treatment can be suitable if you have[2]:

advanced gum disease
overcrowded or extra teeth
impacted teeth
a severely cracked or broken tooth
serious tooth decay

If your case is particularly complex, your dentist may refer you to a specialist.[1]

Benefits of tooth extraction

Having a tooth extracted can feel daunting, but in most cases it’s a straightforward procedure and a positive step for your dental health. Here are some of the benefits tooth removal can bring[2]:

Quick relief from pain and discomfort

A tooth that needs extracting can cause persistent pain. Removal stops it at source, often providing near-instant relief

Improved bite function

Rediscover the ability to bite and chew food without the worry of a loose or painful tooth

Creates space for a new smile

Replacing your missing tooth with a dental implant, bridge or denture restores your smile and preserves a healthy jawbone

Protects your long term oral health

Extraction can prevent damage, decay or infection spreading to adjacent teeth and becoming more complex and costly to resolve

How does tooth extraction work?

Preparation

A local anaesthetic will numb the affected tooth and the gum around it.[2]

Extraction

Your dentist will use special instruments to gently loosen the tooth and remove it from its socket.[2]

Protection

With the tooth removed, you’ll usually be asked to bite gently on a soft piece of gauze to reduce any bleeding from the socket.[2]

Aftercare

You’ll be given some important advice to follow when you go home, to make sure the socket heals naturally and comfortably.[1]

What are the treatment options after extraction?

Leaving a gap can cause problems in the future, as adjacent teeth will try to shift into the space and your jawbone weakens. Your dentist will advise on the best option for replacing your tooth – here are the most popular.

Dental implant

This is a a long-term solution, where a titanium pin is inserted into your jaw, to mimic your tooth root, before a crown is fixed to the top. The crown looks and works just like your real tooth, restoring a natural bite and smile.

Find out more

Dental bridge

A conventional, one-piece bridge fills the gap with a lab-made tooth connected to crowns on either side. It’s precision-made to match the size, shape and shade of your natural teeth, so you can smile, talk and eat with confidence.

Find out more

Modern denture

Dentures are versatile, removable replacements for missing teeth that offer a secure, reliable and comfortable fit, that blends seamlessly into your smile.

Find out more

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Is tooth extraction right for me?

If a tooth is causing discomfort, is severely damaged and can’t be saved with other treatments, extraction may be the best option. Before going ahead, your dentist will want to make sure:

there are no underlying issues or health conditions that could make treatment unsafe
you understand how to care for the affected area afterwards
you’re aware of your options for tooth replacement

Aftercare for tooth extraction

Your dentist will explain what you need to do after extraction, to ensure the site heals naturally and comfortably. Here’s some common guidance[1]:

No rinsing

Avoid rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours, which can disturb the protective blood clot that will be forming over your socket. After that, gently swill with warm salt water to keep the area clean.

Soft foods only

Stick to foods that are easier to eat and minimise discomfort in the days following your extraction.

Medication as directed

If your dentist prescribes antibiotics or pain relief, follow the guidance you’re given for a quick and comfortable recovery.

How much does tooth extraction cost?

The cost of a tooth extraction depends on several factors, including whether you go private or through the NHS, the complexity of the extraction, the tooth’s location, and whether any additional treatment is needed. Your dentist will confirm the cost and provide a personalised treatment plan before going ahead.

FAQs

Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about dental extractions.

During the procedure, your dentist will use a local anaesthetic to numb the area, so you shouldn’t feel pain, though you may experience some pressure. Any discomfort afterwards can usually be eased with over-the-counter pain relief.

Most people quickly return to normal activities. You can usually go back to work or school the next day - maybe longer if your job involves strenuous activity.[2]

Your dentist will advise you best, but if your extraction leaves a gap between your teeth which may become problematic in the future, it’s important to consider a form of replacement – usually an implant, bridge or denture – to maintain your oral health.

You’ll be given clear guidance by your dentist, but generally you should avoid rinsing your mouth, smoking, vaping or drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours after your extraction. Similarly, don’t use straws or put anyting in your mouth that might disturb the protective blood clot that will still be healing over your socket.[1]