An extraction involves having a tooth removed completely from your mouth. This will be carried out by your dentist if a tooth is unable to be saved by any other treatment or for orthodontic purposes.

A local anaesthetic is used to numb the area around the tooth and an extraction is normally a routine procedure in the dental practice. After the tooth has been removed, a cotton pad is placed in the space for approximately 15 minutes and is checked before you can leave the practice.

More difficult extractions will need to be referred to a dentist who has a special interest in oral surgery, for example impacted wisdom teeth. Your dentist can also refer you for treatment under sedation.