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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Dental Extractions in Tillsonburg
When a tooth cannot be kept, plan the removal and what follows. Questions to ask, healing tips and replacement options for patients from Tillsonburg.
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Every dental service for Tillsonburg patientsWhen a tooth has to go
Planning the extraction includes planning what comes after.
Teeth may need to be removed because of severe decay, a crack that reaches the root, advanced gum disease, infection, crowding or a tooth that has not come in properly. The dentist will usually try to keep a natural tooth when it is reasonable, so an extraction is typically recommended after other options have been considered.
Tillsonburg patients can have extractions assessed and performed at our Port Dover office when appropriate. Since you will be travelling home afterwards, arranging a driver if needed and planning a quiet rest of the day are worth thinking about before the appointment.
Making the decision
Understand why the tooth cannot be kept.
Reasons a tooth may need removal
An X-ray and examination help show whether a tooth can be repaired with a filling, crown or root canal, or whether removal is the more sensible choice. Factors include how much healthy tooth remains, the condition of the root and surrounding bone, and infection. Ask the dentist to explain what they see and why.
Questions to ask before agreeing
Before agreeing, ask about the alternatives, the risks of extraction and the risks of leaving the tooth. Find out how the gap may affect chewing or nearby teeth. If the tooth is complex, such as one close to a nerve, ask whether a referral is being considered and what that would involve.
Preparing
Good preparation supports a smoother recovery.
Sharing medical information
Tell the dentist about all medications, especially blood thinners, as well as conditions such as diabetes, heart problems or bone medications. These can affect bleeding and healing. Do not stop any prescription without speaking to the prescribing doctor. Ask whether you should eat beforehand and what to expect for comfort.
Arranging transport and recovery time
Depending on the procedure and any sedation, you may need someone to drive you home to Tillsonburg. Plan to rest afterwards, with soft foods and cold drinks on hand. Arrange time away from strenuous work or exercise if advised. Having these details sorted ahead of time makes the day less stressful.
The procedure
Most extractions are done with local anaesthetic.
Freezing and removing the tooth
The area is numbed so you feel pressure rather than sharp pain. The dentist loosens the tooth and removes it, sometimes in sections if the roots are curved or the tooth is broken. Let the team know right away if you feel discomfort, as more freezing can usually be given.
Controlling bleeding before you leave
Gauze is placed over the site to help a blood clot form. You will be asked to bite firmly for a period. The team will explain aftercare and may give written instructions. Ask about pain relief and when you can resume normal eating before heading home.
Healing
Careful aftercare helps the socket heal.
Protecting the clot in the first days
Avoid spitting forcefully, using straws, smoking and rinsing vigorously for the time advised, as these can disturb the clot. Eat soft foods on the other side. Some swelling and tenderness is normal. Contact the Port Dover office if bleeding will not stop, pain grows after several days or you notice fever or a bad taste.
Planning to replace the tooth
Depending on the tooth, you may want to replace it with an implant, bridge or denture. Ask about timing, since some options depend on how the area heals. Even if you decide not to replace a back tooth, ask how the gap may affect your bite so you can make an informed choice.
Planning your appointment
Plan an extraction from Tillsonburg.
Call our Port Dover office to discuss the tooth in question and any symptoms. Ask whether an exam is needed before the extraction can be scheduled.
Bring a full medication list, arrange transport if needed and plan a restful day once you get home.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Extraction questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Will the extraction hurt?
Local anaesthetic numbs the area so you should feel pressure rather than sharp pain. Some discomfort is common afterwards and is usually managed with pain relief recommended by the dentist. Speak up during the procedure if you feel anything sharp.
How long does healing take?
Initial healing of the gum usually takes a week or two, while the bone continues to change for longer. Recovery varies with the tooth and your health. Follow the aftercare instructions and contact the office if healing seems slow.
What is a dry socket?
A dry socket can occur when the blood clot is lost too early, exposing bone. It often causes increasing pain a few days after extraction. Avoiding straws, smoking and forceful rinsing helps reduce the risk. Call the office if it happens.
Do I need to replace the extracted tooth?
Not always, but missing teeth can affect chewing and allow nearby teeth to shift. Options include implants, bridges and dentures. The dentist can help you weigh the benefits of replacing the tooth against leaving the space.
Can I drive home after an extraction?
With local anaesthetic alone, many people can drive, but it depends on how you feel. If sedation is used, you will need someone else to drive. Ask the team what applies to your appointment before planning the trip.
Extraction and replacement topics
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