What is a tooth extraction?
An extraction means taking a tooth out. We try to keep your own teeth where we can, but sometimes removing one is the right choice.
We may suggest an extraction if a tooth:
- is too badly decayed or broken to repair
- is loose because of gum disease
- has an infection that other treatment cannot fix
- needs to come out to make room for braces
Do wisdom teeth always need to come out?
No. Wisdom teeth that come through normally and cause no trouble can often stay.
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth at the back of the mouth. They often come through in the late teens or twenties, and some get stuck under the gum or bone, or grow at an angle.
Your dentist may suggest removing a wisdom tooth if it causes repeated pain, swelling or infection, or damages the tooth next to it. A stuck wisdom tooth can need minor surgery to remove: see wisdom tooth surgery.
What is minor dental surgery?
It means small operations in the mouth, such as removing a stuck wisdom tooth or a tooth that has broken off below the gum.
What happens when a tooth is taken out?
- Your dentist examines the tooth and takes X-rays.
- They explain the options, the risks and the cost, and answer your questions.
- The area is numbed with a local anaesthetic.
- The tooth is loosened and removed. For a wisdom tooth, a small cut in the gum may be needed, and the tooth may be removed in pieces.
- Stitches may be placed.
- You get after-care advice, and a follow-up appointment if needed.
How long does an extraction take?
A simple extraction usually takes about 20 to 40 minutes. Wisdom tooth surgery usually takes about 45 to 90 minutes, depending on the tooth’s position. These are estimates; the time may vary after your dentist assesses your needs.
Healing usually takes one to two weeks. Many people need a day or two of rest after wisdom tooth surgery.
Does having a tooth out hurt?
The area is numbed with a local anaesthetic first. You may still feel pressure as the tooth comes out. Afterwards, some pain, swelling and a little bleeding are common for the first few days.
Follow the after-care advice you are given, and do not smoke while the area heals.
When should I get help after an extraction?
WhatsApp or call your clinic if the pain gets worse after a few days, or you notice a bad taste or smell. If you have severe swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or bleeding that will not stop, go to a hospital emergency department (A&E) or call 995.
Can I use MediSave for wisdom tooth removal?
Only if the removal is surgical, done at a clinic approved for MediSave claims, and within set limits. A simple extraction is not covered. After the X-ray, your dentist can tell you whether your tooth needs surgery. See the CPF website for current rules.
CHAS also subsidises extractions for eligible cardholders at clinics that take part. See the CHAS website.
All three of our clinics take part in CHAS and can make MediSave claims for surgical wisdom tooth removal.
Should I replace the missing tooth?
A wisdom tooth does not need replacing. For other teeth, it depends on where the tooth was. A dental implant, a bridge or a denture can fill the gap, and your dentist can talk you through each.
How much does an extraction cost?
It depends on whether the tooth can be taken out simply or needs surgery. You will know the cost after the X-ray, before anything is done.
How do I book?
WhatsApp or call the clinic nearest you: Ang Mo Kio Ave 10, Ang Mo Kio (Central) or Clementi. Each clinic’s numbers are on our clinics page, or you can send a booking request.
If you are in pain or have swelling, tell us it is urgent when you get in touch.