Tooth Extraction in Henley on Thames
While our aim is always to preserve your natural teeth, there are situations where tooth extraction is the most appropriate course of action to protect your overall oral health. Whether you need an emergency extraction to relieve severe pain or a planned removal of a problematic tooth, the team at The DNA Henley Clinic in Henley on Thames carries out extractions with care, precision, and appropriate anaesthesia to ensure your comfort. We also provide comprehensive aftercare guidance and discuss replacement options to help you maintain a full, functional smile.
Common Causes
Severe tooth decay — when a tooth is too decayed to be restored with a filling, crown, or root canal treatment, extraction may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection.
Advanced gum disease — periodontitis can destroy the bone and tissues supporting a tooth, causing it to become too loose to save.
Dental abscess — a persistent or recurring infection at the root of a tooth that cannot be resolved with root canal treatment may require extraction.
Impacted wisdom teeth — wisdom teeth that are stuck beneath the gum or growing at an angle can cause pain, infection, and damage to neighbouring teeth.
Fractured teeth — teeth that are broken below the gum line or fractured vertically through the root may not be repairable and need to be removed.
Overcrowding — in some cases, teeth may need to be extracted to create space for orthodontic treatment.
Symptoms to Watch For
Severe, persistent tooth pain that does not respond to painkillers
Significant swelling in the gum, face, or jaw around the affected tooth
A tooth that is very loose and cannot be stabilised
Signs of infection such as pus, fever, or a foul taste in the mouth
Difficulty eating or opening the mouth due to a problematic tooth
Recurring infections in the same tooth despite previous treatment
Need Urgent Dental Care?
Contact The DNA Henley Clinic in Henley on Thames for prompt, compassionate treatment. We offer same-day emergency appointments.
Treatment Options
Simple extraction — for teeth that are visible above the gum line and can be removed in one piece. The area is numbed with local anaesthetic, and the tooth is gently loosened and removed using specialised instruments. This is a straightforward procedure, and most patients experience minimal discomfort.
Surgical extraction — for teeth that are broken below the gum line, impacted, or have complex root structures, a surgical approach may be needed. This involves making a small incision in the gum to access and remove the tooth. Stitches may be placed to aid healing.
Wisdom tooth removal — impacted or problematic wisdom teeth may require a specific surgical approach depending on their position and angle. Our team assesses each case individually and discusses the procedure with you beforehand.
Sedation options — for anxious patients or complex extractions, sedation may be available to help you feel relaxed and comfortable during the procedure.
Post-extraction care — after the extraction, you will receive detailed aftercare instructions, including guidance on managing any discomfort, maintaining the blood clot at the extraction site, and what to eat and drink during recovery.
Tooth replacement options — once healing is complete, we can discuss options to replace the extracted tooth, including dental implants, bridges, or dentures, depending on your needs and preferences.
Prevention Tips
Maintain thorough oral hygiene to prevent the decay and gum disease that are the leading causes of tooth extraction.
Attend regular dental check-ups at The DNA Henley Clinic — early detection and treatment of dental problems can prevent the need for extraction.
Treat cavities and dental infections promptly to preserve your natural teeth.
Wear a mouthguard during contact sports to protect your teeth from traumatic injury.
If a tooth is knocked out or badly damaged, seek emergency dental care immediately — prompt treatment can sometimes save the tooth.
Discuss wisdom tooth concerns with your dentist early, as planned removal is generally simpler than emergency extraction.