Tooth Extraction
The removal of the tooth entirely from its socket in the bone.
What is a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction involves carefully removing a tooth from the jawbone and surrounding tissues. Depending on the condition of the tooth, this may be a simple extraction using dental instruments or a surgical extraction if the tooth is broken, impacted, or not easily accessible.
When Do You Need Your Tooth Extracted?
A tooth may need to be extracted when it is severely damaged and cannot be reliably restored with other treatments such as fillings, crowns, or root canal therapy. In such cases, the long-term prognosis for the tooth is considered poor.
Other situations where extraction may be recommended include:
- Cracks or splits extending below the gumline
- Extensive cavities that compromise the tooth structure
- Severe gum disease with significant bone loss
- Root resorption (breakdown of the root structure)
In these cases, your dentist may recommend extraction instead of attempting restorative treatment.
Tooth extraction may also be required for reasons other than damage or disease. For example, healthy teeth may sometimes be removed as part of an orthodontic treatment plan to manage crowding. In children, baby teeth that are loose or failing to fall out naturally may also be extracted to allow permanent teeth to come through properly.
Types of Tooth Extractions
There are two main types of tooth extractions, depending on the position and condition of the tooth.
Simple Extraction
A simple extraction is performed when the tooth can be clearly seen in the mouth and is easy to reach. After numbing the area with local anaesthesia, the dentist uses instruments to gently loosen the tooth from its socket and remove it with forceps. This type of extraction is commonly done for teeth affected by decay, gum disease, or mobility, and usually involves a straightforward recovery process.
Surgical Extraction
A surgical extraction is required when the tooth is not easily accessible, such as when it has broken off at the gum line, remains unerupted, or is impacted (partially or fully trapped under the gum or bone). This procedure may involve making a small incision in the gum or removing a small amount of surrounding bone. In some cases, the tooth is sectioned into smaller pieces to allow for easier removal. Surgical extractions are often recommended for impacted wisdom teeth or teeth with complex root shapes.
Why Tooth Extraction May Be Recommended
- Stop decay from progressing: By removing the damaged portion and sealing the cavity, fillings can help prevent bacteria from spreading further into the tooth.
- Restore function: A filling allows the tooth to regain its shape, potentially restoring its function.
- Address tooth sensitivity: Covering exposed dentin can lessen sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
- Preserve tooth structure: Fillings retain as much natural tooth as possible, limiting the need for more extensive treatments later on.
- Blend with natural teeth: Tooth-coloured materials such as composite resin can match the surrounding tooth.
- Cost considerations: Fillings are generally less costly than alternatives like crowns.
- Durability: With proper care, fillings can last for many years before replacement is needed.
What to Expect for Your Tooth Extraction at Elite Dental Group
At Elite Dental Group, we aim to provide dental care in a safe, structured, and professional environment.
1st Visit: Consultation
During the initial visit, the dentist will examine the tooth and surrounding structures, often with the help of X-rays. This allows the dentist to determine whether extraction is the most appropriate option and to plan the best approach for removal.
The dentist will provide more information about the procedure, including the steps involved, anaesthesia or sedation options, and preparation guidelines (if sedation is an option).
2nd Visit: Tooth Extraction
On the day of extraction, local anaesthesia is applied to numb the area. For simple extractions, the dentist carefully loosens and removes the tooth using specialised instruments.
If the case is more complex (such as when a tooth is impacted or broken), a surgical extraction may be required. This involves a minor procedure, which could include making a small incision in the gum or dividing the tooth into smaller sections for easier removal.
After the tooth is taken out, the area is cleaned, and stitches may be placed if necessary.
Aftercare and Follow-Up
Once the extraction is completed, patients are given clear instructions for aftercare. This typically includes guidance on managing swelling, controlling bleeding, choosing soft foods, and maintaining oral hygiene during healing.
Most patients recover within a few days, although complete healing of the bone and gum takes longer.
How Much Do Tooth Extractions in Singapore Cost?
The cost of tooth extraction varies depending on the complexity of the procedure. At Elite Dental Group, fees typically range from $150 to $500 for non-surgical extractions. A detailed quotation will be provided after consultation.
Financing Options
Major Banks
We accept interest-free instalment payments from all major banks.
Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL)
We have existing collaborations with BNPL platforms, like Atome and PayLater, to help reduce the upfront expenditure of your dental treatments.
Dental and Corporate Insurance
We are on multiple dental and corporate insurance panels to provide more accessible dental care to you.
Our Approach to Tooth Extractions
At Elite Dental Group, tooth extractions and other dental procedures are carried out with an emphasis on safety, precision, and patient comfort. Our dentists make sure to explain each step of the process clearly, allowing patients to better understand their treatment options.
Our approach includes:
- A patient-focused consultation and treatment plan
- Comprehensive care is provided by our clinical team and nursing staff
- Additional support for patients who may feel anxious about dental procedures
Frequently
Asked
Questions
Got questions? We’ve got answers! Check out our FAQ section for common inquiries and helpful information to guide you.
How do I know if I need a tooth extraction?
Suitability for tooth extraction depends on your oral health and the condition of the affected tooth. A dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and bone structure, often with the help of X-rays, to determine whether extraction is appropriate. Factors such as infection, bone support, and overall medical history are also considered before recommending the procedure.
What is the difference between a tooth extraction and a dental implant?
Tooth extraction is the removal of a damaged or problematic tooth. A dental implant, on the other hand, is a separate procedure used to replace a missing tooth after extraction or tooth loss. In some cases, a dentist may discuss replacing an extracted tooth with an implant to restore function and appearance, but the two are different stages of care.
Why would I need a bone or gum graft with a tooth extraction?
In most cases, grafting is recommended after extraction rather than before, particularly if the bone or gum tissue needs to be preserved for future tooth replacement (such as implants). A bone graft can help maintain the shape and volume of the jawbone after extraction, while a gum graft may be suggested to support healthy soft tissue. Your dentist will advise if grafting is appropriate for your case.
Are tooth extractions safe?
Tooth extractions are routine dental procedures and are generally considered safe when performed by an experienced dentist or oral surgeon. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications.
Common but mild effects include:
- Minor bleeding
- Swelling or tenderness in the extraction area
- Temporary difficulty opening the mouth
- Less common risks may include:
- Dry socket (when the blood clot protecting the extraction site dislodges too soon)
- Infection, especially if oral hygiene is neglected during healing
- Nerve irritation, particularly in lower wisdom tooth extractions (usually temporary)
- Sinus involvement, for upper back teeth located near the sinus cavity
These risks are rare and can be minimised through careful surgical planning, proper aftercare, and following your dentist’s post-extraction instructions closely.
Who is a good candidate for tooth extraction?
A good candidate for tooth extraction is someone whose tooth:
- Is severely decayed or damaged beyond restoration
- Has advanced gum disease affecting the bone support
- Is impacted, such as a wisdom tooth that cannot erupt properly
- Is causing crowding or interfering with orthodontic treatment
- Has developed an infection or abscess that cannot be resolved through other treatments
Your dentist will first assess whether the tooth can be saved through fillings, crowns, or root canal treatment before recommending extraction.
You may also be a suitable candidate if you:
- Have generally good health and can heal well
- Do not have conditions that impair clotting or healing (or have them managed)
- Are prepared to follow proper post-operative care
Before the procedure, your dentist will review your medical history, medications, and oral health to ensure the extraction is performed safely.
Why are tooth extractions so expensive?
The cost of tooth extraction varies depending on the complexity of the case and the type of extraction needed.
Factors that influence the cost include:
- Type of extraction: Simple extractions are less costly, while surgical extractions (such as impacted wisdom teeth) require additional steps like incisions, bone removal, or sedation.
- X-rays and imaging: Diagnostic scans are often needed to assess root position and nearby structures before extraction.
- Anaesthesia or sedation: Local anaesthesia is standard, but sedation or general anaesthesia adds to the cost when required.
- Dentist’s expertise and equipment: Experienced clinicians use advanced techniques and sterile instruments to ensure safer procedures and reduce complications.
- Clinic setting: Facilities that meet surgical-grade hygiene standards and have emergency preparedness protocols in place tend to reflect these operational costs.
While the upfront cost may seem high, professional extraction helps prevent infection, bone loss, and prolonged pain, which can lead to greater expenses later if untreated.
HOW CAN WE
HELP?
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Should you require further information about our costs of treatment, or are looking for recommendations for your needs, we invite you to a consultation with our dentists at a time of your convenience.