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When a tooth cannot be saved, removal may be the safest step. Normandale patients can learn how extractions are planned, performed and healed at our Port Dover office.
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Caring for Normandale residents and seasonal visitors at our Port Dover office
See every dental service for NormandaleWhen removal is best
Dentists generally try to keep natural teeth, but sometimes removal is the most sensible choice. Severe decay, a cracked root, advanced gum disease, crowding before orthodontic treatment or a wisdom tooth causing problems can all lead to an extraction. Understanding the reasons and the alternatives helps you feel confident about the decision.
If you are in Normandale and a dentist has mentioned extraction, our Port Dover team can examine the tooth, explain why removal is suggested and outline what happens afterward. We also discuss how the space might be managed so you can plan ahead.

Why remove it
A tooth may need removal if decay or fracture has destroyed too much structure to restore, if infection cannot be resolved with root canal treatment or if gum disease has left it very loose. Teeth blocking others from erupting or causing repeated infection may also be candidates for extraction.
Ask whether root canal treatment, a crown or gum therapy could save the tooth, and what the long-term outlook would be. Sometimes saving a tooth is possible but less predictable. The dentist will explain the trade-offs so you can make an informed decision that fits your health and preferences.
Preparing
Tell the team about medical conditions, recent surgeries, blood thinners, bone medications, allergies and any previous reactions to anaesthetic. Some medications affect bleeding or healing, and the dentist may need to coordinate with your physician. X-rays help the dentist see the root shape and nearby structures.
Arrange to take it easy for the rest of the day. Stock up on soft foods and follow any instructions about eating beforehand. If sedation is planned, you will need someone to drive you home. Ask what to expect so you can organize work or family responsibilities in advance.
The procedure
Local anaesthetic numbs the tooth and surrounding area. You will feel pressure as the dentist gently loosens the tooth, but you should not feel sharp pain. Let the team know if you do. Some teeth need to be divided into sections or require a small incision in the gum to be removed.
Once the tooth is out, gauze is placed over the site and you bite down to help a clot form. Stitches may be used if needed. The dentist will go over aftercare instructions, pain relief and what to avoid, and give you a contact number in case questions arise.
Healing
Avoid rinsing vigorously, spitting, using straws and smoking for the period advised, since these can disturb the clot. Eat soft foods and chew on the other side. Some swelling and discomfort are normal. Increasing pain after a few days, a bad taste or fever should be reported to the office.
Once the area heals, you can consider whether to replace the tooth. Options may include a bridge, an implant or a partial denture. Leaving a gap can allow neighbouring teeth to shift. The dentist will discuss timing and which option suits the location and your needs.
Planning your appointment
Contact our Port Dover office to book an assessment. Bring a list of medications and let us know about any health conditions. If you are in pain, mention it so the team can advise on timing.
Plan for someone to accompany you if sedation is involved, and leave the rest of the day free to rest.
Before you book
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
The area is numbed, so you should feel pressure but not sharp pain. Discomfort afterwards is usually manageable with recommended pain relief. Contact the office if pain worsens over time.
A dry socket can occur when the clot is lost or dissolves early, leaving bone exposed. It causes increasing pain a few days after extraction. Follow aftercare instructions and call the office if this happens.
You can usually eat soft foods once numbness wears off. Avoid hot, crunchy or very chewy foods for a few days and chew on the opposite side.
Not always, but gaps can lead to shifting teeth and changes in your bite. The dentist will explain whether replacement is recommended and the options available.
Many people can, depending on the extraction and their job. Strenuous activity may need to wait. Ask the dentist for guidance based on your procedure.
Not every wisdom tooth needs to come out. Normandale patients can learn how our Port Dover team assesses wisdom teeth and what removal and recovery involve.
A bridge can replace one or more missing teeth using neighbouring teeth for support. Normandale patients can compare it with other options at our Port Dover office.
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New patients and CDCP patients are welcome. Tell us how we can help and our Port Dover dental team will follow up with you.
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