Tooth extraction in Setapak

A tooth is removed only when it cannot be saved, or when keeping it would cause problems elsewhere. At Klinik Pergigian Genting we discuss the options for saving a tooth first. Consultation starts from RM25, and a PA X-ray is RM60.

Starting price, not a quotation. Your personalised treatment plan and fee estimate will be provided following assessment.

When a tooth needs removing

• Decay too extensive to restore, with too little sound structure left to hold a filling or crown
• A fracture running below the gum line, which generally cannot be repaired
• Advanced gum disease, where supporting bone loss has left the tooth mobile
• Infection that cannot be treated, where root canal treatment is unsuitable or has failed
• Problem wisdom teeth - see wisdom tooth removal
• Orthodontic reasons, where space is needed before braces
• Retained baby teeth blocking an adult tooth in children

When a tooth can still be saved

Not every painful tooth needs removing. Root canal treatment saves a tooth whose nerve is infected, and a crown can strengthen one that has become fragile.

Your own tooth is almost always preferable to a replacement. It supports the teeth beside it, maintains the bone in the jaw, and needs no replacing later.

We will explain what saving the tooth would involve and what it would cost before recommending extraction.

What happens during the procedure

Assessment and X-ray. The X-ray shows root shape and position relative to nearby structures, which determines whether a simple extraction is enough or minor surgery is needed.

Local anaesthetic. The area is fully numbed. You stay awake throughout.

Removal. The tooth is gently loosened from the bone before being lifted out. You will feel firm pressure, but should not feel pain.

Surgical removal, where needed. For teeth that are impacted or broken at gum level, the dentist opens a small flap of gum and may divide the tooth into sections. Stitches are often placed.

Afterwards. You bite on gauze for at least an hour, changing it every 30 minutes until the bleeding stops, so a blood clot can form in the socket.

Aftercare

The blood clot in the socket protects the wound. Protecting it is the most important thing you do in the first days.

First 24 hours

• Bite on gauze for at least an hour, changing it every 30 minutes until bleeding stops
• Do not rinse forcefully
• Do not use a straw - suction can dislodge the clot
• Do not smoke
• Avoid hot and spicy food, and anything hard
• Rest, and avoid strenuous activity

After 24 hours

• Keep brushing, avoiding the socket itself
• Eat soft food and chew on the other side

Swelling and discomfort. Swelling usually peaks on day two or three, then subsides. A wrapped cold compress helps on the first day. Take painkillers as directed on the packaging.

Warning signs

Contact the clinic if:

• pain gets worse after day three rather than better
• bleeding does not stop after a few hours of biting on gauze
• swelling increases after day three
• you develop a fever
• there is a strong bad taste or smell from the socket
• you cannot open your mouth normally after several days

Dry socket occurs when the clot is lost before the wound heals, causing strong pain typically three to four days afterwards. It needs treating at the clinic.

Replacing the tooth afterwards

A gap does not stay a simple gap. Neighbouring teeth tend to drift toward it, and the opposing tooth can over-erupt into the space.

Options:

• Dental implant - fixed, does not involve the neighbouring teeth
• Bridge - fixed, supported by the teeth either side
• Denture - removable, partial or full

Wisdom teeth need no replacement. Other teeth generally do. Your dentist will advise on your case.

What it costs

Consultation starts from RM25, and a PA X-ray is RM60.

Starting price, not a quotation. Your personalised treatment plan and fee estimate will be provided following assessment.

Frequently asked questions

Does having a tooth out hurt? You should not feel pain during the procedure, as local anaesthetic is used. You will feel pressure and movement. Discomfort once the anaesthetic wears off is normal and manageable with painkillers.

How long does healing take? The gum usually closes within one to two weeks. The bone underneath takes several months to fill in fully.

Can I go to work afterwards? Most people return to work the next day after a simple extraction. Surgical extractions may need longer.

When can I eat? Once the anaesthetic wears off. Start with soft, lukewarm food and chew on the opposite side.

Do I have to replace the tooth? Wisdom teeth do not need replacing. Other teeth generally do, because replacement prevents the neighbouring teeth drifting into the gap.

Can I have a tooth out while pregnant? Tell your dentist you are pregnant at the assessment. Treatment is often possible, but timing, X-rays and medication all need considering.