If you have problems with your tooth or gums, such as decay, periodontal disease, or an abscessed tooth, you may need to get a tooth removed.
Tooth extractions allow our dental team to create sufficient space for orthodontic treatment, such as with Invisalign clear aligners, or to remove a tooth due to irreparable decay or gum disease. Our dental team will discuss any potential alternatives first before recommending that a tooth be removed.
People typically have only two sets of teeth in their lifetime: milk teeth and permanent teeth. Milk teeth are the first set of teeth when we are young. When the milk teeth fall out, the second set of permanent teeth begins to take root. However, poor oral health habits sometimes lead to:
- Irreversible tooth decay damage occurs when dental caries reach the pulp, which is located in the core of the tooth. Bacteria degrade a tooth’s enamel and can infiltrate the pulp to cause an infection. A root canal treatment may be possible. However, a tooth extraction may be necessary if the tooth decay has spread too far.
- Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a multifactorial condition characterised by inflammation that can lead to gum recession. It is usually related to dental plaque build-up. Gum recession makes teeth more susceptible to decay and advanced periodontal disease. The condition is typically easily addressed with proper oral hygiene, including brushing and regular dental visits. When left untreated, gum disease can cause bone degradation around the teeth, leading to tooth loss.
- Impacted teeth are, essentially, those that are blocked from erupting out of the gums. Wisdom teeth are a great example of teeth that can be affected. Our dental surgeons may recommend extracting an impacted tooth to reduce the risk of infection and overcrowding.
- When teeth are overcrowded, there’s not enough room for them to shift to realign your teeth. When this is the case, a tooth extraction may be a good option before orthodontic treatment to restore proper alignment.
- Accidents happen, such as a cracked tooth from playing sports or a misdirected elbow to the mouth. When a patient comes to us after one of these unfortunate events, our primary goal is always to save the tooth. All that may be needed is a dental bonding, crown, bridge, or veneer. But in severe cases, a full tooth extraction may be necessary.
Tooth Extraction Process at Our Dental Clinic in Singapore
A tooth extraction is usually a last-resort procedure because the tooth can no longer be restored, is too mobile, or is being removed in preparation for orthodontic treatment.
The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia. Our dental clinic always applies a surface numbing gel before giving the local anaesthetic injection to ensure the procedure is as pain-free as humanly possible. If you have any concerns about analgesia, please feel free to discuss them openly with our dentist.
Once the area around the extraction site is numb, our dentist will apply light pressure to the tooth from various sides to loosen it slowly. When the tooth is quite loose within its socket, forceps are used to remove the tooth gently. In most cases, we’re able to extract the whole tooth intact. In cases where the tooth is severely decayed, it may break off into separate pieces. Once the entire tooth is completely removed, the extraction site is checked for any debris and cleaned. We’ll then place a pack to stop the bleeding.
Following the tooth extraction procedure, we’ll provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for the extraction site to optimise healing. Frequently, we will prescribe mouthwash and painkillers.
Tooth Extraction Price in Singapore
We hope this information about tooth extractions has helped you better understand what to expect when it comes time for your appointment.
We always encourage you to meet with our dentist for a consultation to discuss your individual needs and treatment costs for a tooth extraction. The cost of a tooth extraction treatment depends on several factors. The fee range for a non-surgical extraction is $85.60 to $160.50. Wisdom tooth extraction costs can be found in our oral surgery section.
You may be able to use your MediSave account for certain surgical procedures, such as a surgical extraction of a wisdom tooth or a fractured tooth. Remember, if you have any questions or concerns in the meantime, don’t hesitate to contact our general dental clinic in Singapore.
