Fillings & extractions
Teeth Extractions
A tooth extraction is the careful, considered removal of a tooth from its socket when preservation through restorative treatment is no longer clinically viable — always with preserving your natural teeth as our first priority.
Discussing whether a tooth needs removal
At Mantsho Dental, preserving your natural teeth is always our first priority. However, situations arise where maintaining a severely damaged tooth poses ongoing infection risks to surrounding tissues, neighbouring teeth, or your general health.
Common reasons an extraction is discussed include deep unrestorable decay extending beneath the bone level, severe root fractures, advanced mobility from periodontal disease, or severe crowding. We walk you through the diagnosis gently and respectfully before any decision is finalised.
Assessment and available options
Before discussing tooth removal, an oral assessment and diagnostic dental X-rays evaluate the root curvature, surrounding bone support, and proximity to adjacent structures.
Restorative alternatives first
We always evaluate whether a tooth can be salvaged with fillings, endodontic care, or periodontal management before proceeding with removal.
Gentle clinical technique
When extraction is necessary, local anaesthesia ensures the area is profoundly numb, and controlled, gentle techniques protect the surrounding bone.
Preparing questions before treatment
We encourage you to share any anxieties or questions before beginning. Useful questions to bring include:
- What anaesthetic options will be used to keep me comfortable during the extraction?
- Should I disclose specific medications, such as blood thinners or osteoporosis treatments?
- What future tooth-replacement considerations should I keep in mind for chewing function?
Recovery and follow-up discussions
After an extraction, caring for the healing blood clot in the socket is essential to prevent a painful dry socket. We provide verbal and written aftercare instructions tailored to your specific case.
General post-operative advice includes biting firmly on a clean gauze swab to establish haemostasis, avoiding vigorous rinsing, spitting, or drinking through a straw for the first 24 hours, sticking to soft, room-temperature foods, and resting.
Teeth extraction questions
When is extraction considered?
When severe tooth destruction, root fracture, deep unrestorable decay, or advanced mobility makes repair impossible or risks spreading infection.
Can I ask about alternatives?
Yes. We always discuss whether restorative options like deep fillings, crowns, or referral for root canal therapy can save the tooth before proceeding.
What medical history matters?
Please inform us about blood thinners (anticoagulants), bisphosphonate medications, heart conditions, diabetes, hypertension, or a history of slow healing.
What about recovery instructions?
Protect the blood clot: avoid spitting, smoking, or hot beverages for 24 hours. Eat soft foods, maintain gentle rinsing with warm salt water after day one, and take recommended analgesics.
What about follow-up concerns?
If you experience persistent bleeding, severe throbbing that worsens after 48 hours, fever, or swelling, call our practice for advice.
Related services
Need to discuss a tooth extraction?
Call Mantsho Dental on 063 289 0889 to speak with our dental therapist in Johannesburg South.