Common reasons for extraction:

• Decay that's reached deep into the tooth
• Infection that's destroyed a large portion of the tooth or surrounding bone
• Overcrowding, where there isn't room for all your teeth
• Making space as part of orthodontic treatment

Your dentist will take an X-ray beforehand to plan the safest extraction approach and appropriate anaesthetic, then give you clear aftercare guidance to support a smooth recovery.

Looking after yourself after an extraction:

• Rest for a few hours afterward and skip strenuous exercise; avoid rinsing for the first 24 hours.
• Rinse gently after meals and before bed for several days, using a warm salt-water solution (half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of water), held in the mouth for a few minutes and repeated two to three times.
• Stick to cool, soft foods and avoid hot drinks, alcohol, and anything hard or chewy; keep contact away from the extraction site.
• If bleeding occurs, sit upright with your head raised, and apply firm pressure with clean gauze or cloth for 15 minutes, repeating if needed. Contact your clinic if it continues.
• For pain relief, take whatever you'd normally use for a headache, aside from aspirin.
• Avoid smoking for 24-48 hours after treatment.