Tooth Extraction in Clapham

While preserving natural teeth is always our priority, there are situations where tooth extraction is the best course of action. At SW11 Medical Clinic in Clapham Junction, our experienced dental surgeons perform both simple and surgical extractions with skill and compassion, ensuring your comfort throughout the procedure.

What Is Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. There are two types: simple extractions, where the tooth is visible above the gum line and can be removed with standard instruments, and surgical extractions, which are more complex procedures required for teeth that are broken at the gum line, impacted, or have curved roots. Both types are performed under local anaesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience.

Who Needs Tooth Extraction?

Extraction may be recommended if you have a severely decayed tooth that cannot be restored, advanced periodontal (gum) disease causing loose teeth, a fractured tooth below the gum line, impacted wisdom teeth causing pain or infection, overcrowded teeth requiring orthodontic treatment, or a tooth that has failed root canal treatment. Your dentist will always discuss alternatives before recommending extraction and will only proceed when it is genuinely the best option for your oral health.

The Extraction Procedure

Before any extraction, your dentist will take X-rays to assess the tooth’s root structure and plan the procedure. Local anaesthesia is administered to numb the area completely. For simple extractions, the tooth is gently loosened and removed using specialised instruments. Surgical extractions may require a small incision in the gum and, occasionally, the tooth may need to be sectioned into pieces for easier removal. The entire procedure typically takes 20 to 45 minutes.

Recovery and Aftercare

After extraction, a blood clot forms in the socket, which is essential for healing. We recommend biting on gauze for 30 to 45 minutes, avoiding hot drinks and strenuous activity for 24 hours, eating soft foods for a few days, not smoking for at least 48 hours, and gently rinsing with warm salt water after 24 hours. Most patients recover fully within 1 to 2 weeks. We will discuss tooth replacement options such as implants, bridges, or dentures at your follow-up appointment.

Pricing

Our extraction prices are straightforward. A deposit of £50 is charged on all appointments.

Simple tooth extraction: From £170
Surgical tooth extraction: From £350 to £550
Milk tooth extraction (children): £120
Stitch removal: £70
Abscess incision: £110

Frequently Asked Questions

How painful is a tooth extraction?

With modern anaesthesia, you should feel no pain during the extraction itself, only pressure. After the procedure, mild to moderate discomfort is normal for a few days and is well-managed with over-the-counter painkillers.

How long does it take to recover from an extraction?

Most patients feel significantly better within 3 to 5 days. Complete healing of the socket takes 1 to 2 weeks for simple extractions and 2 to 4 weeks for surgical extractions.

What are my options for replacing the extracted tooth?

Depending on the location and your preferences, options include dental implants (the gold standard), bridges, or dentures. Your dentist will discuss the most suitable options during your consultation.