Tooth extraction in Vancouver.

Severe damage, unfavourable fractures or disease can sometimes make removal appropriate. Before deciding, we assess whether treatment could retain the tooth. The recommendation should reflect the diagnosis, outlook and your priorities. A tooth may need removal if it cannot be predictably restored, has an unfavourable fracture or has lost too much support. The question is whether a useful, maintainable tooth can be retained, not simply whether a root canal is technically possible.

A root canal may be an option when the tooth can be restored and has suitable support. The plan includes both root canal treatment and the restoration needed afterwards. Severe structural damage can make keeping the tooth less predictable, while removing a restorable tooth also has long-term consequences.

Local anaesthesia is used where appropriate to numb the area. You may notice pressure or movement; tell us if you feel pain so we can respond. Comfort options and any need for referral are discussed before the procedure. Pressure, movement and vibration are common sensations during an extraction. Sharp pain is a reason to signal us to stop and check the anaesthesia, not something you need to tolerate.

Follow your postoperative instructions. Soft foods are generally easier initially; avoid chewing while numb and protect the healing site. Return to firmer foods as comfort and your clinician’s advice allow, rather than using a fixed day that applies to everyone. Choose foods such as eggs, yogurt or smooth soup at a comfortable temperature. Avoid hard fragments that can lodge in the socket, and wait until numbness resolves before chewing so you do not bite your lip or tongue.

Initial comfort, gum closure and deeper bone healing happen on different timelines. The procedure, tooth position and health factors influence recovery. Contact us if symptoms are worsening instead of improving or if you are unsure whether the site looks or feels normal. Feeling ready for normal activities and complete tissue healing are different milestones. After wisdom tooth surgery, discomfort or jaw stiffness can last up to two weeks, although many people resume activities much earlier. Your extraction may have a different recovery pattern.

Follow the specific guidance provided on bleeding control, cleaning, eating and medicines. Avoid disturbing the clot and follow advice about smoking, alcohol, straws and activity. If bleeding will not settle with the measures you were given, contact the treating clinician or urgent care. The first 24 hours are mainly about protecting the clot: avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting and follow the written instructions for bleeding and cleaning. Do not stop prescribed blood thinners unless the clinician responsible for them has advised it.

That depends on which tooth was removed, the bite and your goals. Replacement options can include an implant or bridge. Wisdom teeth generally have a different replacement discussion from a visible or functional tooth in the main dental arch. If replacement is likely, discuss it before extraction where possible. The future tooth position, available bone and neighbouring teeth can affect whether an implant, bridge or no replacement is appropriate.

Worsening pain, persistent bleeding, increasing swelling or concerns about healing need a call to the clinic. Severe pain beginning or worsening a few days after extraction can be a sign of dry socket and needs assessment. Difficulty breathing or swallowing, or rapidly spreading facial swelling, requires emergency medical care.