Tooth Extractions in Worthing

There are several reasons a tooth may need to be removed: severe decay that cannot be restored, advanced gum disease that has loosened the tooth, a cracked or broken tooth that cannot be repaired, infection or abscess that does not respond to root canal treatment, overcrowding when orthodontic treatment is planned, or problematic wisdom teeth. We will always discuss all available options with you before recommending extraction, and explain clearly why we believe it is the best course of action.

Before the extraction, we numb the area thoroughly with local anaesthetic. You will feel pressure during the procedure but you should not feel sharp pain. Simple extractions - where the tooth is visible and accessible - are usually quick, often taking just a few minutes. Surgical extractions - for teeth that are broken below the gum line or impacted wisdom teeth - may take longer and involve a small incision in the gum. We will tell you exactly what to expect before we begin.

Wisdom teeth often cause problems because there is not enough room for them to come through properly. They can become impacted (stuck against the neighbouring tooth), partially erupted (leading to infection), or grow at an angle. Not all wisdom teeth need removing - we only recommend extraction when they are causing or likely to cause problems. We assess wisdom teeth with x-rays and discuss the options with you.

After an extraction, we provide detailed aftercare instructions. Most patients recover within a few days. Key aftercare includes biting gently on gauze to control bleeding, avoiding hot food and drink for the first few hours, not rinsing vigorously for 24 hours, eating soft foods initially, and taking painkillers as needed. We will arrange a follow-up if necessary and are always available if you have concerns during your recovery.

After healing, there are several options for replacing a missing tooth: dental implants (the most permanent solution), a dental bridge (fixed to neighbouring teeth), or a partial denture (removable). Leaving a gap - especially in the back of the mouth - can cause neighbouring teeth to shift over time, so we generally recommend replacing missing teeth when possible. We will discuss all options and help you choose what is right for your situation and budget.