Extractions

Adult teeth are meant to last a lifetime, but sometimes they can develop deep decay, severe infection or irreparable damage. Tooth extraction may be the only option to protect your oral health, ease pain and save neighbouring teeth. At Ballina Coast Dental, we do everything we can to save and treat existing teeth. However, tooth extraction may be necessary for your health. We do not take dental extractions lightly and will always discuss your treatment options at length before moving forward with any course of action. 

Our dentists at Ballina Coast Dental are experts in gentle tooth extraction and are known for providing quality treatment for extractions, including wisdom teeth. We use leading-edge techniques and technologies for a more effective and comfortable treatment. Our Ballina dental clinic provides simple and surgical extractions for mild to moderate cases, and we work with a local specialist to treat more severe cases. 

Your Comfort Is Important to Us 

Ballina patients can expect the highest level of patient care and clinical excellence at Ballina Coast Dental. Our safe and caring team strives to consistently provide comfortable treatments, including simple and surgical extractions. If a patient needs an extraction, we ensure they feel as comfortable and safe as possible before beginning treatment. To make your visit more relaxing, we offer nitrous oxide to calm dental anxiety and nerves, neck pillows, ad-free Spotify radio and TVs in treatment rooms. 

Common Reasons for Tooth Extraction

We will only recommend tooth extraction as a last resort. There are many reasons why a patient may need an extraction, such as:

• Extensive tooth decay reaching below the gumline 
• Cracked teeth reaching below the gumline
• Impacted wisdom teeth that are painful or can cause potential damage to surrounding teeth 
• Crowded teeth that may need removal before orthodontic treatment 

Our dentists address simple and surgical extractions, and we use nitrous oxide sedation and local anesthetics to keep the procedure pain-free. However, if needed, we will refer the patient to a reputable, local oral surgeon who we’ve collaborated with closely over the years. 

Extractions for Wisdom Teeth 

Wisdom teeth are the third molars located in the very back of the mouth. Many wisdom teeth emerge during adolescence or early adulthood. Not all patients have enough space in their mouths to support wisdom teeth successfully. Insufficient room in the oral cavity can cause wisdom teeth to grow at an odd angle or remain stuck beneath the gums (impaction). Impacted wisdom teeth may require extraction to avoid pain or damage to surrounding teeth.

Dental Extraction Recovery and Aftercare

The first 24 hours are critical for blood clot formation and healing. After your dental extraction, your dentist will review recovery and aftercare instructions personalised to your oral health needs. Standard care for most dental extractions are: 

• Avoiding contact with the extraction site to prevent dry socket and allow for quicker healing. 
• Avoid using a straw for the first 24 hours to avoid disturbing the extraction site. 
• Rinse with warm salt water after 24 hours to flush away debris and promote healing. 
• Do not smoke until fully healed, as smoking can inhibit recovery. 
• Take medication, including pain relievers, as directed by your dentist.
• See your Ballina dentist for check-ups so we can monitor your healing and review tooth replacement options if needed. 

If cared for properly, tooth extractions can heal quickly.

Your Ballina Dentist Welcomes Your Call

Do you think you might need an extraction? If so, our Ballina dental clinic welcomes your call. We can help you determine the best treatment for your oral health needs and smile goals.