The part people dread, made manageable
Nobody looks forward to an extraction. What makes the difference is knowing exactly what will happen, being properly numb, and being treated by someone who is not rushing. That is what we aim for every time.
Simple Extractions
Sometimes a tooth is too decayed or broken to save, and removing it is the sensible answer rather than spending money propping up something that will fail anyway.
A simple extraction is done under local anaesthetic. You will feel pressure but not pain, and it is usually over much faster than people expect.
We will always talk through what goes in the gap afterward, whether that is an implant, a bridge, or nothing at all, before we take the tooth out.
Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth cause trouble when there is not enough room for them. They can come in at an angle, push against the tooth in front, or only partially emerge and trap bacteria under the gum.
Not every wisdom tooth needs removing. If yours are through, functional, and cleanable, leaving them alone is perfectly reasonable.
When removal is the right call, a panoramic x-ray tells us the root shape and position beforehand, so there are no surprises on the day.
Root Canals
A root canal treats infection inside the tooth. Despite the reputation, the procedure itself relieves pain rather than causing it. The pain people associate with root canals is the abscess that brought them in.
We clean out the infected tissue, disinfect the canals, and seal them. The tooth stays in place and keeps doing its job.
Afterward the tooth usually needs a crown, since it becomes more brittle without its blood supply.
Comfort & Nitrous Sedation
Nitrous oxide, sometimes called laughing gas, takes the edge off anxiety while you stay awake and able to talk. It wears off within minutes, so you can drive yourself home.
If dental fear is what has kept you away for years, say so when you book. It is far more common than people realise and we will plan around it rather than push through.
Being properly numb is not negotiable. If you feel anything, tell us and we will stop and add more anaesthetic.
Recovery & Aftercare
Some swelling and soreness for a couple of days is normal. Ice for the first day, then warmth. Over the counter painkillers handle it for most people.
The important part is protecting the clot in the socket. No smoking, no drinking through a straw, and no vigorous rinsing for the first day or so.
You will get written instructions before you leave, and a number to call if something does not feel right. Please use it rather than waiting it out.