At Macleod Dental, we always explore every option to save a tooth before recommending extraction. Sometimes, however, removal is the most appropriate course of action — either because the tooth is too damaged to restore, or because keeping it would harm the surrounding teeth and bone.
When extraction is necessary, our team performs the procedure as gently and comfortably as possible. We ensure you are completely numb and at ease throughout, and we always discuss your tooth replacement options before you leave so you never feel left with unanswered questions.
Used when the tooth is fully erupted and visible. After local anaesthetic, the tooth is gently loosened and removed. Most patients are surprised by how quick and comfortable simple extractions are.
Required when a tooth is impacted, partially erupted, or broken at the gum line. A small incision is made to access and remove the tooth carefully under local anaesthetic.
We provide detailed written aftercare instructions and are available if any concerns arise. Most patients recover within 3–5 days for simple extractions.
We discuss implants, bridges, and dentures before you leave so you have a clear plan for replacing the tooth.
Step 1
We confirm the tooth’s condition and position using X-rays and assess the best approach for a safe, smooth extraction.
Step 2
We apply anaesthetic and wait until the area is completely numb before proceeding. You will feel pressure but not pain.
Step 3
We carefully loosen and remove the tooth, working gently to minimise trauma to the surrounding tissue.
Step 4
We place gauze over the socket and ask you to bite gently to encourage a blood clot to form and protect the healing area.
Step 5
We provide written aftercare instructions covering diet, oral hygiene, and what to watch for during healing.
Step 6
Before you leave we discuss your options for replacing the tooth — implants, bridges, or dentures — so you have a clear plan.
We understand that needing an extraction can feel stressful. Our team takes every care to make the experience as calm and comfortable as possible.
We work with care and patience to make every extraction as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
We explain exactly what will happen, answer all your questions, and check in with you throughout the procedure.
Serving Macleod, Rosanna, Watsonia, Bundoora, and all surrounding suburbs. New patients welcome.
We use local anaesthetic to fully numb the area before we begin, so you should feel pressure and movement but not pain. Many patients are surprised by how straightforward the experience is. Any soreness in the days after the anaesthetic wears off is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen or paracetamol.
Most patients feel back to normal within 3–5 days after a simple extraction. Surgical extractions — such as impacted wisdom teeth — may take 7–10 days for full recovery. We provide detailed written aftercare instructions to help you heal as smoothly as possible, and we are always available if you have concerns during recovery.
In most cases, yes — especially for visible or functional teeth. Leaving a gap can cause neighbouring teeth to shift, affect your bite, and lead to bone loss in the jaw over time. We will discuss the best replacement option for your situation, whether that is a dental implant, bridge, or denture, at your appointment.
A dry socket occurs when the blood clot protecting the extraction site is dislodged before healing is complete, exposing the underlying bone. It is painful but treatable. You can greatly reduce the risk by avoiding smoking, straws, and vigorous rinsing for the first 24 hours after extraction. If you develop persistent or worsening pain after a few days, contact us promptly and we will assess and treat the socket.
We always explore root canal treatment before recommending extraction to save the tooth where possible.
Advanced gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss — treating it early prevents the need for extraction.
Need urgent tooth removal? We offer same-day emergency appointments for patients in pain.
Our compassionate team will make the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. Contact Macleod Dental to book your appointment today.
