Tooth Extractions

Tooth extraction becomes a necessary procedure under various circumstances. One common reason is the impaction of wisdom teeth, which may necessitate wisdom tooth extraction. Wisdom teeth often emerge improperly, leading to pain, swelling, and potential damage to adjacent teeth. In such cases, the tooth extraction procedure becomes a means to alleviate discomfort and prevent further oral health complications.

Another scenario requiring having your teeth extracted is severe dental decay or infection that compromises the tooth’s structural integrity. If decay has progressed extensively, and the tooth is beyond restoration through procedures like root canal therapy, extraction may be the recommended course of action. 

The cost of tooth extraction is influenced by factors such as the complexity of the extraction, the location of the tooth, and the need for additional measures such as anaesthesia. Patients can discuss the specifics, including the potential cost, with their dentist to make informed decisions regarding the extraction of teeth.

It’s important to note that while tooth extraction is sometimes necessary, at On Point Dental, we prioritise preserving natural teeth whenever possible. Regular dental check-ups enable early identification of issues, reducing the likelihood of extensive decay or impaction that may lead to extractions. If you are faced with the prospect of tooth extraction, we will discuss the reasons for the extraction, the tooth removal procedure itself, and any associated costs to ensure you have a well-informed and comfortable experience.

The duration of a tooth extraction procedure can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of the extraction, the tooth’s location, and your individual circumstances. Generally, a “straightforward” tooth extraction takes around 20 to 40 minutes.

During the tooth extraction procedure, we will administer local anaesthesia to ensure your comfort, then carefully loosen the tooth in its socket before extracting it. Once the tooth is removed, we also provide post-extraction instructions for optimal healing.

After tooth extraction, it’s normal to experience some bleeding initially, and this typically subsides within a short period. We will place a gauze pad over the extraction site to help control bleeding and promote clot formation. It’s important to follow your post-extraction care guidelines provided to ensure proper healing.

Any discomfort or swelling can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses. It’s common to have some residual discomfort, and the normal socket after tooth extraction will gradually fill in with new tissue.

The key distinction between a dry socket and a normal socket lies in the post-tooth extraction healing process. A normal socket is characterised by the formation of a blood clot at the extraction site after a tooth is removed. This blood clot plays a vital role in protecting the underlying bone and nerves, promoting the healing of the extraction site. It acts as a natural barrier, preventing infections and facilitating the gradual formation of new tissue to fill the void left by the extracted tooth. In cases where patients follow post-extraction care guidelines, including avoiding activities that may disrupt the blood clot, a normal socket ensures a smooth and uneventful healing process.

On the other hand, a dry socket occurs when the blood clot is prematurely dislodged or doesn’t form adequately after tooth removal. This condition exposes the underlying bone and nerves to air, food particles, and bacteria, leading to increased pain and delayed healing. Dry sockets are often associated with heightened discomfort, a noticeable increase in pain around the extraction site, and sometimes a foul taste or odour. If you notice these symptoms, it’s crucial you promptly report them to us, as addressing a dry socket may involve specific interventions, such as placing a medicated dressing in the socket to alleviate pain and promote healing.

Having your teeth extracted is considered a small surgery! As such, it’s important to follow your dentist’s guidance to promote optimal recovery.

Common tooth removal side effects include initial bleeding and swelling. As part of your post-extraction treatment, we’ll place a gauze pad over the extraction site to help control it. Patients should bite down gently on the gauze for the recommended time to encourage clot formation.

After the bleeding subsides, there are common things to avoid after tooth extraction. This includes refraining from vigorous rinsing, spitting, or touching the extraction site, as these actions can disrupt the clot and lead to prolonged bleeding or a condition known as dry socket. It’s also advisable to avoid hot or spicy foods in the initial days, opting for softer, cooler options to minimise discomfort.

To encourage proper tooth extraction healing, patients should follow the prescribed aftercare instructions, which often include maintaining good oral hygiene while being gentle around the extraction site. Regularly rinsing with a saline solution can help keep the area clean.

Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to manage any discomfort, and cold compresses applied to the cheek can help reduce swelling. As the normal socket after tooth extraction heals, new tissue gradually fills in the gap left by the extracted tooth. It’s important to attend scheduled follow-up appointments.

If you notice any unusual side effects, such as prolonged bleeding or increasing pain, contact us promptly at 9430 4181 for further guidance.

Tooth extraction costs in Fremantle can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of the extraction, the tooth’s location, and the specific dental practice. 

The cost of the extraction of a tooth is influenced by considerations such as whether it’s a straightforward extraction or a more complex procedure, like the removal of impacted wisdom teeth. Generally, the fee for a routine tooth extraction can range from $150 to $300, but for more intricate cases, such as wisdom tooth extraction, the cost may be higher. 

When considering the cost of a dentist tooth extraction, patients should also factor in additional expenses that may be involved, such as pre-extraction consultations, diagnostic imaging, and post-extraction care. At On Point Dental we offer payment plans and are happy to discuss costs ahead of your procedure, to make sure your decision is fully informed.

HBF and Bupa insurance may cover the cost of tooth extractions, including the extraction of wisdom teeth, depending on the specific details of your insurance plan.

The coverage for the cost of tooth extraction can vary among insurance plans, and we encourage you to check the terms and conditions of your policy to understand the extent of coverage.

Wisdom tooth extraction is often considered a medically necessary procedure to address potential dental issues and, hence, is often eligible for insurance coverage. However, it’s important to confirm with your insurance provider, such as HBF, Bupa, or Medibank, including any associated costs or co-payments, to make informed decisions regarding their dental care and potential financial obligations.

After tooth extraction, be mindful of what and when you eat to support proper tooth extraction healing and minimise the risk of complications. Initially, it’s advisable to wait until the anaesthesia wears off before attempting to eat. During the first few hours, it’s best to stick to soft, cool, and non-spicy foods to avoid irritation to the tooth extraction site.

It’s essential to adhere to the dentist’s aftercare instructions, including things to avoid after tooth extraction, such as refraining from using straws, which can create suction and potentially dislodge the blood clot crucial for healing, and avoiding hot liquids and foods that require vigorous chewing.

As the day progresses and the normal socket after tooth extraction begins to heal, patients can gradually reintroduce a more diverse diet, but it’s essential to be cautious and prioritise foods that are easy to chew to avoid unnecessary strain on the healing extraction site.

Tooth extraction aftercare includes avoiding vigorous rinsing or spitting during the first 24 hours to preserve the blood clot essential for healing. Maintaining good oral hygiene is even more important than usual, and we advise brushing gently around the extraction site and rinsing with a saline solution. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used as recommended to manage any discomfort, and cold compresses applied externally can help reduce swelling.

We recommend sticking to soft foods after tooth extractions, at least for the first few days. Having your teeth extracted is a minor surgery, and you should focus on tooth extraction aftercare. This includes avoiding hot or spicy food, foods that require significant chewing, and avoiding drinking with a straw. For the first few days, let your gums and teeth heal by consuming soft, cool, and non-spicy foods.

The timing for reintroducing solid food after a tooth extraction depends on your personal healing progress. Generally, we advise eating only soft foods after tooth extraction procedures for at least the first few days. You can gradually progress to more solid foods a few days after tooth removal, depending on how well your wound heals.

It’s essential to avoid foods that may cause irritation or disrupt the healing process, such as hard or crunchy items. It’s important to follow your dentist’s recommendations regarding the transition to solid foods and pay attention to any discomfort or sensitivity. If uncertain, reach out to your friendly Fremantle dentist to confirm when it is safe to resume a regular diet.

Avoiding dairy products after a tooth extraction is often recommended as part of the dentist’s guidance for soft food after tooth extraction diet. Dairy products, especially those that are cold or contain elements like seeds, can potentially cause discomfort or irritation to the extraction site.

Consuming softer foods during the initial healing period minimises the risk of disrupting the blood clot and supports a smoother recovery after tooth removal. Opting for dairy alternatives or incorporating other nutrient-rich soft foods can provide a balanced diet without compromising the healing process.

The healing timeline after tooth extraction can vary from person to person, but on average, it takes about 1 to 2 weeks for the initial stages of recovery. During this time, patients are advised to be vigilant about following tooth extraction aftercare instructions, including things to avoid after tooth extraction (discussed in FAQs above).

We recommend refraining from activities such as smoking, using straws, or consuming hot and spicy foods during the early days to prevent complications like dry sockets and support the formation of a stable blood clot in the normal socket after tooth extraction. While some discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding are normal tooth removal side effects, these typically subside within the first few days.

Tooth extraction healing is a gradual process, and complete recovery, including the regeneration of bone and soft tissue in the extraction site, may take several weeks to months. It’s important to attend any follow-up appointments scheduled by your dentist to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Proper tooth extraction aftercare, which includes maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding disruptive activities, and promptly reporting signs of infection, is essential for a smooth and complication-free recovery. If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or other unusual symptoms, contact your friendly On Point Dental dentists promptly to rule out any potential tooth extraction infection and ensure appropriate intervention.

Managing pain after tooth extraction is essential to ensure comfortable recovery during the tooth extraction healing process. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, when taken as directed by your dentist, can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek in intervals of about 15 minutes can also provide relief from pain after tooth extraction and help minimise swelling. Additionally, adhering to tooth extraction aftercare guidelines, which may include avoiding strenuous activities, refraining from smoking, and maintaining good oral hygiene, contributes to smoother recovery and can help prevent complications such as tooth extraction infection.