Tooth Removal Costs & Procedure in Finchley Central

A tooth extraction is generally recommended when a tooth is too damaged to be saved with other treatments. You might need a tooth removed if you're experiencing severe toothache from decay that has destroyed most of the tooth structure, or if a tooth has become very loose due to advanced gum disease. Another common reason is for impacted wisdom teeth that are causing pain, infection, or crowding other teeth. For example, a patient from Finchley Central recently needed a wisdom tooth removed as it was growing sideways and putting pressure on the adjacent molar, causing persistent pain. In some orthodontic cases, extractions are also needed to create enough space to straighten crowded teeth effectively.

Understanding the process can ease anxiety. First, you have a 30-minute consultation where we take a digital X-ray to assess the tooth's roots and the surrounding bone. Next, we thoroughly numb the area with a local anaesthetic so you'll feel pressure but no pain. Once the area is fully numb, the extraction itself takes about 15 to 45 minutes, depending on whether it is a simple or more complex surgical removal. Finally, we place sterile gauze over the socket to control bleeding and provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth healing process. The entire appointment typically lasts around 60 minutes.

We believe in upfront pricing with no hidden fees. The cost depends on the complexity of the procedure. Simple Tooth Removal starts from £180. This covers teeth that are visible and can be removed in one piece. Surgical Tooth Removal starts from £350. This applies when teeth have broken at the gum line or are impacted, such as some wisdom teeth. The final fee includes the local anaesthetic and a follow-up check if needed. The initial consultation and X-ray are quoted separately. We are a fully private practice and do not offer NHS treatment. However, plans from major insurers such as Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna are accepted. Please share your provider when you book.

Proper aftercare helps prevent complications like dry socket. First 24 hours: bite gently on the gauze pack for 30 to 60 minutes. Eat soft, cool foods such as yogurt or smoothies. Avoid rinsing, spitting, smoking, or drinking through a straw, as these can disturb the clot. Use over-the-counter pain relief like ibuprofen if needed. Days 2 to 7: rinse with warm salt water after meals. Swelling and bruising are normal and usually peak around day 3. Stick to soft foods and gradually reintroduce firmer items as you feel comfortable. Red flags include increasing pain after day 3, uncontrolled bleeding, high temperature, or a bad taste in the mouth from the socket. If you have concerns during office hours, contact the practice; for after-hours emergencies, go to A&E or call 111.

Our goal is to save natural teeth whenever possible. Before recommending an extraction, we explore all other options. If the tooth has deep decay or infection, a root canal treatment could be an alternative. This procedure removes the infected pulp inside the tooth, saving the tooth and offering a high success rate. If the tooth is cracked or weakened, a dental crown can restore strength and function. We proceed with removal only when these options are not clinically viable.

To help you make an informed choice about your care, whether you choose us or another practice near Finchley Central, consider these questions: Is this a simple or a surgical extraction, and why? Does the quoted price include the consultation, X-rays, and follow-up appointments? What are the specific risks in my case, such as proximity to nerves? What are the signs of a dry socket I should watch for? What tooth replacement options exist after the extraction, such as an implant or bridge, and what do they cost? What pain management plan do you recommend for after the procedure?