We would rather keep a tooth than remove one, and we will tell you honestly when saving it is realistic. But sometimes removal is the right answer: a tooth broken below the gum, decay too extensive to restore, severe gum disease, or a wisdom tooth causing repeated infections.
Simple and surgical extractions
A simple extraction removes a tooth that is fully visible in the mouth. The area is numbed, the tooth is loosened and lifted out. It is usually quicker than people expect.
A surgical extraction is needed when a tooth is broken at the gumline or has not fully erupted — commonly impacted wisdom teeth. It may involve a small incision, and sometimes the tooth is divided so it can be removed in pieces through a smaller opening. Stitches may be placed.
Wisdom teeth
Wisdom teeth do not automatically need removing. They are usually taken out when they are causing trouble: repeated infection of the overlying gum, decay in the wisdom tooth or the tooth in front of it, or pain from an impacted tooth pressing against its neighbour. A wisdom tooth that has come through properly and is being kept clean can stay.
Aftercare — the first 24 hours
A blood clot forms in the socket and protects the healing site. Almost all aftercare is about not dislodging it.
- Bite firmly on the gauze pad for about 30–45 minutes
- Do not rinse, spit forcefully, or use a straw for the first 24 hours — suction pulls the clot out
- Do not smoke; it markedly increases the risk of a painful dry socket
- Eat soft, cool food and chew on the other side
- Rest, and keep your head raised on an extra pillow that night
- From day two, rinse gently with warm salt water several times daily, especially after meals
Contact us if
Bleeding does not settle after firm pressure for an hour; pain worsens around day three to four rather than improving, often with a bad taste or odour (this can indicate a dry socket, which we can treat); you develop facial swelling, fever, or difficulty opening your mouth, swallowing or breathing. The last of these needs urgent attention — see emergency care.
Common questions
Will it hurt?
The area is fully numbed, so you should feel firm pressure and movement but not sharp pain. If you do feel sharpness, tell us and we will add more anaesthetic. Discomfort afterwards is normal for a few days and is usually manageable with ordinary painkillers.
How long until I can go back to work?
Many people return the next day after a simple extraction. A surgical extraction, particularly of impacted wisdom teeth, more often needs a couple of quieter days with some swelling. Ask us before the appointment so you can plan.
Will there be a gap?
If a visible tooth is removed we will discuss replacement options — a dental implant, a bridge, or a denture. Back teeth matter too: gaps let neighbouring teeth drift and tilt over time.
What it costs
We do not publish a price list, because the right treatment — and so the price — depends on what we find when we examine you. What we promise instead:
- A written treatment plan and quote before any work begins
- No charges you have not agreed to first
- Payment by MTN MoMo, Airtel Money or card
Nervous about this treatment?
Tell us when you book. We allow extra time, explain each step before we do it, and stop whenever you ask us to.