When Is a Tooth Extraction Needed?
We always try to save a natural tooth where we can, through treatments like fillings, crowns, or root canals. Removal is usually recommended only when a tooth can’t be saved or is causing problems for the teeth around it. Common reasons include:
- Severe decay that has damaged too much of the tooth
- A tooth broken below the gumline
- Advanced gum disease that has loosened the tooth
- Infection that can’t be resolved another way
- Crowding, sometimes before orthodontic treatment
- Wisdom teeth that are impacted or causing problems
- A baby tooth that hasn’t fallen out on its own
If there’s a way to save your tooth, we’ll tell you. If removal is the better option, we’ll explain why.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom teeth are the last molars to come in, usually in the late teens or early twenties. When there isn’t enough room for them, or they come in at an angle, they can cause pain, crowding, infection, or damage to nearby teeth. In these cases, removal is often recommended.
Some wisdom teeth are straightforward to remove, while others, particularly those that are impacted or haven’t fully emerged, involve a minor surgical procedure. We’ll assess your situation, take X-rays to see the position of the teeth and roots, and let you know what to expect. If a case is more complex than is best handled in a general practice, we’ll refer you to the right person.
Does a Root Canal Hurt?
This is the question we hear most, and the honest answer is that a root canal is done to relieve pain, not cause it. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, so it’s usually comparable to having a filling placed.
Much of the discomfort people associate with root canals actually comes from the infection beforehand. Once the infected pulp is removed, that pain is relieved. Some tenderness for a few days afterward is normal, and it’s usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
If dental anxiety is holding you back, let us know. We’ll take the time to keep you comfortable and talk you through each step.
Types of Extraction
Simple Extraction
A simple extraction removes a tooth that’s visible and accessible in the mouth. It’s done under local anaesthetic, and most people find it more straightforward than they expected.
Surgical Extraction
A surgical extraction is used for teeth that are broken at the gumline, impacted, or otherwise harder to remove. It’s a minor surgical procedure, still done under local anaesthetic, and we’ll give you detailed aftercare guidance to support smooth healing.
Protecting Your Smile After an Extraction
When a tooth is removed, the gap left behind can affect your bite and allow neighbouring teeth to drift over time. Replacing a missing tooth isn’t always necessary, but it’s often worth considering, especially for teeth that are visible or important for chewing.
If you’d like to explore replacement options, we can talk through them, including dental implants and bridges. Where an implant may be an option down the road, we can also discuss preserving the bone at the time of extraction.
What to Expect
Before the extraction, we numb the area thoroughly so you’re comfortable throughout the procedure. You may feel some pressure, but you shouldn’t feel pain. For a simple extraction, the tooth is gently loosened and removed. For a surgical extraction, a few additional steps are involved, which we’ll explain beforehand.
Afterward, we’ll give you clear instructions for the first few days, including how to manage any discomfort, what to eat, and how to care for the area while it heals. Most people recover comfortably within a few days by following the aftercare guidance.
Recovery and Aftercare
Good aftercare helps you heal comfortably and lowers the chance of complications. In the first day or two:
- Rest and avoid strenuous activity
- Take any pain relief as directed
- Eat soft foods and avoid the extraction site while chewing
- Avoid using a straw, spitting forcefully, or smoking, since these can disturb healing
- Keep the area clean, following the specific guidance we give you
Some swelling and mild discomfort is normal in the first few days. If you have heavy bleeding that won’t stop, increasing pain after a few days, or signs of infection, contact us so we can help.
Extractions and Your Coverage
Extractions are often covered at least in part by dental insurance, and we offer direct billing to most providers. Shaughnessy Square Dental Centre is also a participating provider for the Canadian Dental Care Plan, which covers extractions for eligible patients.
We’ll always confirm what’s covered before treatment so there are no surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a tooth extraction hurt?
The area is numbed with local anaesthetic before the procedure, so you shouldn’t feel pain, though you may feel some pressure. Afterward, mild discomfort is normal and usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief and the aftercare guidance we provide.
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
Most people feel noticeably better within a few days and recover comfortably by following the aftercare instructions. Surgical extractions, such as some wisdom teeth, may take a little longer to heal fully.
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No. Wisdom teeth that come in properly and cause no problems can often be left alone. Removal is recommended when they’re impacted, crowding other teeth, or causing pain or infection.
Should I replace a tooth after it's removed?
It depends on the tooth. Replacing a visible or functional tooth is often worth considering to protect your bite and keep neighbouring teeth from shifting. We can talk through options like implants and bridges.
What can I eat after an extraction?
Stick to soft foods for the first few days and avoid chewing on the extraction site. We’ll give you specific guidance based on your treatment.
Are extractions covered by insurance?
Extractions are often partially covered, and they’re among the services covered by the CDCP for eligible patients. We offer direct billing and can check your coverage before treatment.
Gentle Tooth Extractions in Port Coquitlam
If you have a painful or problem tooth, don’t put it off. We’ll assess it, explain your options, and help you decide the best way forward. Request an appointment at Shaughnessy Square Dental Centre, Monday through Saturday.