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