Tooth extraction (1701)

What is a tooth extraction?

Sometimes a tooth must be pulled.

• If they cause pain.
• If there is an infection.
• To help straighten other teeth in the mouth.

How are teeth extracted?

• Medicine is injected to numb the mouth.
• The tooth is loosened and lifted away from the bone.
• Your dentist can talk to you about other options.

What are the risks of tooth extraction?

Common risks

• Soreness, pain, swelling, and problems opening the mouth.
• Bleeding.

Less common risks

• Delayed healing (dry socket).
• When the tooth is pulled, a blood clot forms to cover the hole. If the blood clot comes off too soon, it is called dry socket. This may happen from sucking on a straw, eating crunchy foods, rinsing with too much force or smoking.

Drug reactions or allergies.

• Infection.
• Cracking at the corners of the mouth.
• Damage to nearby teeth or fillings.
• Sharp ridges or bone splinters.
• Root tips may remain in the jaw and cannot be removed.
• Openings into the sinus.
• Injury to nerves that can cause short term or permanent numbness.
• The jawbone may break.

Are there other options?

• A root canal will remove the nerve of the tooth, and leave the tooth in the mouth.
• You may choose to do nothing. Your child’s doctor will tell you what the possible risks are.

Other information

Oral Surgeons are specialists at removing teeth.

• Your doctor or dentist may suggest using one.
• You may ask to be referred to one.
• Discuss this option with your dentist.

Other teaching sheets that may be helpful:

• Dental surgery: Home care #1726