Tooth Extraction

If found early enough, decay can be reversible (i.e. it goes away itself) without treatment. This is only the case when the decay is small and still within the enamel (the outside shell of the tooth). Preventive measures alone including use of fluoride may help reverse the decay, i.e. allow the tooth to ‘re-mineralize’. Decay that has spread through into dentine (the softer inner part of the tooth) will need treatment. This will involve a dental filling.

The earlier the cavity is treated, the smaller and easier any filling will be. There are a variety of materials that are used for tooth decay treatment and Tooth Extraction in Blacktown. The different materials, their advantages, how fillings are placed and much more is covered in our fillings for teeth section. When a tooth is extensively decayed a filling may not be enough to fix the tooth. It may need an inlay, an inlay or crown to restore it. If decay continues unchecked, it will reach the nerve of the tooth. As decay gets near the nerve this is usually when you might feel pain.

When the nerve (pulp) of the tooth is damaged by decay, the tooth will root canal treatment, before the tooth is filled or crowned. If decay progresses unchecked, the tooth may eventually rot away to the root and the tooth will need extracted

How is a tooth extracted?

As a precaution, the dentist will first take X-rays of the tooth or teeth in question, to help plan the procedure. After preparing a method of extraction, you will be given a local anaesthetic that will prevent you from feeling pain during the procedure. Next, the dentist will use a tool called an elevator to lift the tooth and loosen ligaments and gum tissue around the base of the tooth.

Finally, the dentist will use a pair of forceps, to gently rock the tooth back and forth until it breaks free of the ligaments holding it in the gum tissue. Occasionally, a stubborn tooth will resist the dentist’s soft tug, refusing to come out. In these and more complex cases, the tooth may need to be broken up into smaller pieces for removal.

Once removed, we will pack gauze into the socket and have you place pressure on the area by biting down. If necessary, the dentist will place stitches to close the socket. Feel free to call us if looking for dental extractions near me.