About Tooth Extractions at Smile Hub Clinics

A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. While every effort is made to save a natural tooth before recommending extraction, there are situations where removal is genuinely the best clinical option — and delaying only prolongs pain and risk of spreading infection.

At Smile Hub Clinics, extractions are performed under effective local anaesthesia. You will feel pressure and movement during the procedure but no pain. Our approach emphasises thorough anaesthesia, unhurried technique, and clear aftercare instructions — which is why our patients consistently report a much better experience than they anticipated.

Many of our Google and Marham reviews specifically mention painless, quick extractions as a highlight of their visit — something we take great pride in.

Types of Extractions We Perform

Most Common

Simple Extraction

For teeth that are fully erupted and visible in the mouth. The tooth is loosened with an elevator and removed with forceps. Straightforward, quick, and well-tolerated under local anaesthesia.

Surgical

Surgical Extraction

For teeth that are broken at the gum line, have curved or fused roots, or are partially/fully impacted. Requires a small incision and sometimes sectioning of the tooth. Most wisdom tooth removals fall here.

Most Requested

Wisdom Tooth Removal

Impacted, partially erupted, or problematic third molars. We perform both straightforward and complex wisdom tooth extractions — with X-ray planning to assess root anatomy and proximity to the nerve before every case.

Paediatric

Milk Tooth Extraction

Removal of baby teeth that are overdue for natural loss, infected, or causing crowding. Gentle approach with age-appropriate communication to keep children calm and cooperative throughout.

When Is Extraction Necessary?

Severe decay with no restorable tooth structure
Dental abscess not responding to treatment
Impacted wisdom tooth causing pain or infection
Crowding before orthodontic treatment
Advanced gum disease with severe bone loss
Fractured tooth below the gum line
Root fracture that cannot be treated
Retained baby tooth blocking eruption

The Extraction Process

1

Assessment & X-Ray

A periapical X-ray is taken to assess root anatomy, bone levels, and proximity to important structures. For wisdom teeth, a panoramic view may be needed. This planning step is non-negotiable — it directly affects how the extraction is approached and prevents complications.

2

Local Anaesthesia

The area is numbed thoroughly. We wait until the anaesthesia is fully effective before beginning — there is no time pressure. If you feel anything sharp during the procedure, tell us immediately and more anaesthetic is given.

3

Extraction

For simple extractions, the tooth is loosened with a dental elevator and removed with forceps. For surgical cases, a small incision is made, bone may be carefully removed, and the tooth may be sectioned before removal. The socket is irrigated and cleared of any infected tissue.

4

Wound Care

Gauze is placed and firm pressure applied to encourage clot formation. For surgical extractions, sutures may be placed to close the gum. Detailed aftercare instructions and any necessary prescriptions (antibiotics, pain relief) are given before you leave.

Aftercare Instructions

Follow these instructions for smooth healing

  • Bite on the gauze firmly for 30–45 minutes after leaving the clinic
  • Avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the socket for 24 hours
  • After 24 hours, rinse gently with warm salt water 3–4 times daily
  • Take prescribed pain relief and antibiotics as directed — complete the full course
  • Eat soft, cool foods for the first 24–48 hours
  • Avoid smoking, alcohol, and hot drinks for at least 48 hours
  • Do not use a straw — the suction can dislodge the clot
  • Contact us immediately if pain significantly worsens after day 3 (possible dry socket)

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the extraction hurt?
The procedure itself is performed under local anaesthesia and should be painless. You will feel pressure, movement, and vibration — but not pain. After the anaesthesia wears off (usually 2–4 hours), some soreness is normal and managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Most patients are surprised by how manageable it is. If pain significantly increases after the first 2–3 days rather than improving, contact us — this may indicate dry socket.
How long does a wisdom tooth extraction take?
A straightforward wisdom tooth extraction takes 15–30 minutes. A complex surgical case with a deeply impacted tooth may take 45–60 minutes. The time depends on the tooth's position, root anatomy, and degree of impaction — all assessed on X-ray before the appointment. We always give you a realistic time estimate at assessment so you can plan accordingly.
What is dry socket and how do I avoid it?
Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) occurs when the blood clot that normally forms in the extraction socket is dislodged or dissolves before healing is complete, exposing the underlying bone. It causes severe, throbbing pain typically starting 3–5 days after extraction. It is more common after lower wisdom tooth removal and in smokers. Avoid smoking, using a straw, or vigorous rinsing for 48 hours after extraction. If you develop dry socket, contact us — it is treated by gentle socket irrigation and a medicated dressing that relieves pain quickly.
Do I need antibiotics after an extraction?
Not for every extraction. Antibiotics are prescribed when there is active infection, when the patient has certain medical conditions, or after complex surgical extractions. For straightforward extractions in healthy patients, antibiotics are not routinely needed and their unnecessary use is avoided. If you are prescribed antibiotics, complete the full course even if you feel better before finishing.
What can I do about the gap after extraction?
After extraction, the socket heals over 6–8 weeks. The gap left by a missing tooth should be replaced to prevent neighbouring teeth from drifting and opposing teeth from over-erupting. Options include a dental implant (the gold standard), a bridge (fixed, requires preparation of adjacent teeth), or a partial denture (removable). We discuss replacement options at the time of extraction — it is important to plan ahead rather than leaving the gap indefinitely.
How soon can I eat after extraction?
Wait until the anaesthesia has fully worn off before eating — usually 2–4 hours. Then eat soft, cool or room-temperature foods on the opposite side from the extraction. Soup, yoghurt, eggs, mashed vegetables, and soft rice are all suitable. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods for 3–5 days. Avoid hot foods and drinks for 24 hours. Most patients return to near-normal eating within a week.