If you’ve been told you need a tooth extraction, one of your first questions might be, “How long does it take to extract the tooth?” For most simple extractions, it can take anywhere from just a few minutes to around 20 to 40 minutes. Your dental appointment as a whole may take 30 to 60 minutes, including the initial oral examination, X-rays, local anaesthetic and aftercare. More complex extractions can take longer, particularly if the tooth is broken, impacted or difficult to access. In such cases, it could take anywhere from about 45 minutes to 2 hours.
The exact tooth extraction time depends on the tooth being removed and how complicated the procedure is. Here’s what you can expect at Melton Dental when you come in for a tooth extraction.
How Long Does A Simple Tooth Extraction Take?
A simple tooth extraction usually takes around 20 to 40 minutes. This type of extraction is generally carried out when the tooth is fully visible above the gum and can be removed without surgery. A simple extraction works for severely decayed and damaged teeth or teeth that are too difficult to restore.
Before removing the tooth, your dentist will numb the area with local anaesthetic and may take an X-ray to check the tooth and its roots. Once the area is numb, the dentist will gently loosen and remove the tooth. The removal itself may take only a few minutes, but the full appointment takes longer because it involves preparation and aftercare.
How Long Does A Surgical Tooth Extraction Take?
A surgical or complex tooth extraction can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours. Surgical extraction may be needed when a tooth is broken below the gum line, impacted, difficult to access or has complicated roots.
During the procedure, your dentist may need to make a small opening in the gum or divide the tooth into smaller sections before removing it. While this can take more time than a straightforward extraction, not every surgical extraction will take two hours. Some can be completed in less than an hour, while particularly complicated cases may take even longer.
How Long Does It Take To Extract A Wisdom Tooth?
The time it takes to extract a wisdom tooth depends on how many wisdom teeth we’ll be extracting and the complexity of the procedure.
If the wisdom tooth has fully erupted and is easy to access, it may be removed relatively quickly, but if it is impacted or sitting beneath the gum, a surgical extraction may be necessary. As a result, wisdom tooth extraction can take anywhere from around 20 minutes to 2 hours.
Your dentist can give you a more accurate estimate after examining the tooth and taking an X-ray, where necessary.
What Happens During A Tooth Extraction?
Regardless of how long the extraction takes, the basic process is pretty much the same. It involves the following steps:
Oral Examination
Your dentist will examine the tooth and may take an X-ray to assess its roots and position.
Local Anaesthetic
The dentist will numb the area around the tooth with a local anaesthetic.
Tooth Removal
The dentist will carefully loosen and remove the tooth. With a simple extraction, this can be relatively quick. A surgical extraction may involve making an incision or dividing the tooth into smaller sections.
Aftercare
After the tooth is removed, your dentist will check the area and may place stitches if needed. You’ll also receive instructions for looking after the extraction site at home.
What Can Affect How Long A Tooth Extraction Takes?
No fixed time applies to every extraction. Several factors can make the procedure shorter or longer.
- The condition of the tooth: A tooth that is intact and easy to access can be removed sooner than one that is badly broken or decayed.
- The position of the tooth: Teeth that are difficult to reach can take longer to remove, particularly back teeth and wisdom teeth.
- The roots: Curved, unusually shaped or multiple roots can make an extraction more complicated.
- Whether the tooth is impacted: A tooth that is trapped beneath the gum or bone may require a surgical extraction.
- The type of extraction: Simple extractions generally take less time than surgical or complex extractions.
Your dentist at Melton Dental can explain which type of extraction you’ll likely need and give you a more specific estimate during your consultation.
Does A Tooth Extraction Hurt?
A tooth extraction should not cause sharp pain because the area is numbed with local anaesthetic beforehand. However, you may feel some pressure, pushing or movement as the dentist works on the tooth, which is normal.
After the procedure, the area may feel sore once the anaesthetic wears off. Your dentist will then give you aftercare instructions to help you manage discomfort and protect the extraction site while it heals.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Tooth Extraction?
The extraction itself may take less than an hour, but your mouth needs longer to heal. Your recovery time can depend on whether you had a simple or surgical extraction. A more complex procedure may cause more swelling and require a little more downtime.
Some soreness, swelling and tenderness are normal after an extraction, particularly during the first few days. The gum will gradually heal over the following weeks.
Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions is important to protect the extraction site and support proper healing.
When Should You Have A Tooth Extracted?
Common reasons for extraction include severe decay, extensive damage, certain infections, badly broken teeth and some impacted wisdom teeth. If you’re experiencing ongoing tooth pain or have a damaged tooth, an examination can help determine what’s causing the problem and whether extraction is actually necessary.
Our dentists will generally consider whether your tooth can be saved before considering extraction. However, removing it may be the best option when a tooth is too damaged or unhealthy to restore.
Need A Tooth Extraction In Melton?
If you’ve been told you need a tooth removed or you’re experiencing pain from a damaged tooth, Melton Dental can assess the problem and explain your treatment options. We’ll let you know whether a simple or surgical extraction is appropriate and give you an idea of how long your procedure will take.
Contact Melton Dental to book an appointment and find out what treatment is right for your tooth.