No dentist enjoys removing a tooth — but when a tooth cannot be saved, timely extraction prevents infections, pain and bigger costs. The procedure is short and painless, and for most patients recovery takes a couple of days.
At a glance
- What it is: removal of a tooth from its socket under local anaesthesia — simple or surgical
- When: a tooth that cannot be saved, fracture below the gumline, advanced gum disease, baby teeth, orthodontic reasons
- Anaesthesia: local; the procedure is painless; sedation for the anxious
- Duration: a simple extraction takes minutes; surgical up to an hour
- Recovery: a couple of days; most return to work the next day
- Cost: an estimate is given at your consultation; the replacement plan is made right away
On this page
- When a tooth must come out
- Simple vs surgical extraction
- The procedure
- Aftercare
- What next: replacement options
- Cost
- FAQ
When must a tooth come out?
When decay has destroyed a tooth beyond what a build-up or crown can save; when a tooth is fractured below the gumline; with advanced gum disease leaving the tooth loose and without bone support; with baby teeth obstructing the eruption of permanent ones; and occasionally within orthodontic plans. Saving options are always exhausted first — extraction is the last, not the first measure.
Simple vs surgical extraction
A simple extraction is done when the tooth is visible and accessible: the tooth is loosened and removed without opening the gum. A surgical extraction is needed for teeth broken below the gumline, curved roots or unerupted teeth — the gum is opened, the tooth sectioned if needed and the wound sutured. Both are performed under local anaesthesia.
What does the procedure look like?
At ESTERA we perform extractions under local anaesthesia: examination and imaging, anaesthesia (given time to work), then the extraction — you feel only pressure. Afterwards you bite on gauze for 30–60 minutes and receive written instructions. If you take medication (for example blood thinners), this is discussed before the procedure — do not stop any medication on your own.
Aftercare
First 24 hours: no rinsing, no hot food, no drinking through a straw and no smoking — the blood clot in the socket is the foundation of healing. Cold compresses from outside ease swelling. Strong pain appearing 2–3 days after the extraction can be a dry socket — it is uncommon and is resolved quickly in the office.
What next: replacement options
An extracted tooth should not remain a „gap“: bone in that area shrinks over time and neighbouring teeth drift. Replacement options are an implant, a bridge or a denture — the choice depends on the region, bone and plan. It is best to discuss the replacement plan already at the consultation before the extraction.
Cost
The cost depends on whether the extraction is simple or surgical and on the position of the tooth; an estimate is given at your consultation. See our dental price list.
Frequently asked questions
Does a tooth extraction hurt?
No — the procedure is under local anaesthesia. You feel pressure, not pain; controlled discomfort for a couple of days follows.
How long does it bleed?
Light oozing is normal for a few hours; heavier bleeding that does not stop with gauze pressure calls for contacting the office.
Can I go to work after an extraction?
With a simple extraction most can return the next day; with a surgical one, a day or two of rest is advisable.
When can I eat?
As soon as the anaesthesia wears off — soft, not hot food, on the opposite side for the first days.
Book a consultation
If a tooth has been „knocking“ for a while, an earlier decision means a simpler procedure and an easier recovery. ESTERA, Bokeljska 7, Vračar, Belgrade — +381 66 378 372.
Book a consultation: +381 66 378 372
Content prepared and medically reviewed by Dr Nenad Stanković, DDS/DMD, specialist in cosmetology, international lecturer and trainer in aesthetic medicine.