A broken tooth can cause sharp pain, difficulty chewing, and sometimes even infection if left untreated. In some instances, repairing the tooth isn’t feasible, and a broken tooth extraction may be required to support your oral health and prevent further problems.
This guide explains when extraction is recommended, what happens during the dental procedure, and how to care for your mouth afterwards to promote a smooth recovery.
When Is Broken Tooth Extraction Needed?
Not every broken tooth requires removal. Sometimes, your dentist can restore it with a filling, crown, or root canal therapy, provided that the inner pulp stays healthy. However, extraction may be the safest option if:
- The tooth damage extends below the gum line
- The affected tooth is fractured into multiple pieces
- There is a severe tooth infection or gum disease around the tooth
- The surrounding bone or other teeth are at risk
- You experience a severe toothache and swelling that won’t subside
Your dentist will take X-rays to assess the structure of the tooth and determine whether a simple or surgical tooth extraction is needed.
Simple vs Surgical Tooth Extraction
There are two main approaches to tooth removal, depending on the position and condition of the tooth.
Simple Tooth Extraction
A simple tooth extraction is done when the whole tooth is visible above the gum line. After applying a local anaesthetic, your dentist loosens the tooth with dental instruments and gently removes it from its socket.
This type of dental extraction is usually quick and straightforward, and it is typically carried out at the dentist’s office.
Surgical Tooth Extraction
A surgical procedure is required when the tooth may have broken below the gum line, is trapped in the bone, or when multiple teeth need removal.
During a surgical extraction, the dentist makes a small incision in the gum to reach the affected tooth. Sometimes, the procedure may involve removing part of the surrounding bone or dividing the tooth into smaller sections for easier removal.
This approach is common for wisdom teeth, severely damaged teeth, or when periodontal disease has weakened the supporting tissues.
Preparing for the Procedure
Before the dental procedure, your dentist will:
- Review your medical history and medications
- Explain what type of tooth extraction you need
- Discuss replacement options for your missing tooth later (such as dental implants)
- Provide instructions on eating, medications, and care before your appointment.
If an active infection is present, your dentist might recommend antibiotics before the extraction to lower the chance of complications.
What Happens During Broken Tooth Extraction
During a broken tooth extraction, your dentist follows several careful steps to remove the tooth safely and support healing.
- Anaesthesia: The dentist numbs the affected area using a local anaesthetic to ensure you feel no severe pain during the procedure.
- Loosening the Tooth: In a simple extraction, the dentist uses gentle pressure to loosen and remove the entire tooth.
- Surgical Steps: If it’s a surgical tooth extraction, the dentist may make an incision, remove surrounding bone, or separate the tooth before extraction.
- Controlling Bleeding: A gauze pad is positioned on the extraction area to manage bleeding and allow a blood clot to form within the socket.
These steps help ensure safe removal and set the stage for proper healing.
Aftercare and Recovery Tips
Good aftercare is vital for a quick recovery and to help safeguard your overall oral health. Here’s what to do once your tooth has been extracted:
Manage Bleeding
Keep the gauze pad in place for the first 30–60 minutes to allow the blood clot to form. If minor bleeding continues, replace it with a fresh piece and apply gentle pressure.
Control Swelling
Place an ice pack on your cheek near the extraction site for 10–15 minutes at a time during the first 24 hours. This helps reduce inflammation and swelling.
Eat Soft Foods
Eat soft foods like mashed potatoes, yoghurt, or soup for the first few days. Steer clear of hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate the extraction site. Cool or chilled foods may also provide relief.
Maintain Cleanliness
After 24 hours, softly rinse your mouth using warm salt water to cleanse the affected area and reduce the risk of infection. Avoid vigorous swishing or rinsing for the first day, as doing so can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
Avoid Certain Activities
For the next 24–48 hours:
- Don’t drink alcohol or smoke, as this can slow down healing.
- Avoid using straws or spitting forcefully, as it may loosen the blood clot.
- Rest and limit physical exertion for a day or two to allow your body to focus on recovery.
Pain Relief and Medication
It’s common to feel slight soreness after a tooth extraction. Pharmacy pain medication can help ease discomfort, but if the pain becomes severe, contact your dentist straight away. Persistent or worsening pain may suggest dry socket or infection, which needs prompt attention.
Healing Stages After Tooth Extraction
The healing timeline can vary depending on whether you had a simple or surgical extraction, your age, and your overall oral health.
First 24 Hours
A blood clot forms and starts protecting the empty socket. Mild bleeding and swelling are normal.
2–3 Days
The swelling begins to reduce. Keep applying an ice pack if needed and stick to soft foods.
1 Week
New tissue starts forming at the extraction site. Most people can resume their normal diet, though it’s best to avoid biting directly on the affected area.
2 Weeks and Beyond
The healing tissues continue to develop, filling in the extraction site. By now, you should be able to return fully to your usual oral care routine.
Following your dentist’s instructions closely will help promote healing and lower the risk of infection.
When to Call Your Dentist
After the dental extraction, monitor your mouth for signs that may need professional care. Contact your dentist if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent bleeding that won’t stop after a few hours
- Severe pain that doesn’t improve with medication
- Swelling that worsens after three days
- An unpleasant taste or odour coming from the extraction area
- Fever or other signs of infection
Early dental treatment can prevent complications and protect your surrounding teeth and overall oral health.
Discussing Tooth Replacement Options
Once the area has healed, your dentist will help you discuss replacement options to restore function and appearance. Leaving a missing tooth unaddressed can cause surrounding teeth to shift, affecting your bite or even leading to further tooth damage over time.
Common restoration methods include:
- Dental implants: These replace the natural tooth root and offer a long-term, stable solution.
- Dental bridges: An option for replacing one or more missing teeth using support from other teeth.
- Dentures: Suitable when multiple teeth are missing or require removal.
Choosing the right replacement options helps restore appearance, protect the surrounding bone, and maintain good alignment for future orthodontic treatment if needed.
Preventing Future Tooth Damage
To reduce the chance of needing another extraction, practise good habits to protect your dental health:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss carefully around your other teeth and gumline
- Visit your dentist’s office for regular check-ups
- Seek early care for signs of tooth decay or gum disease.
- Use a mouthguard while playing sports or when sleeping if you tend to grind your teeth.
These steps help preserve your natural teeth and reduce the likelihood of requiring emergency tooth extraction or more complex surgical extractions later.
Summary: Supporting a Smooth Recovery
A broken tooth extraction is often required when a damaged tooth cannot be saved. Whether it’s a simple or surgical extraction, following your dentist’s advice helps reduce discomfort and support a healthy recovery.
After your procedure, avoid rinsing or spitting forcefully, rest as needed, and keep the area clean with gentle salt water rinses after 24 hours. Choose soft foods and avoid alcohol or smoking during the first few days to help your mouth heal properly.
If you’re dealing with a broken tooth or want professional advice about your recovery, book a consultation with us at Definitive Dental or call (02) 6105 9833 for caring, professional guidance tailored to your situation.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Resources
Cherney, K., McLean, A. and Archibald, J. (2025). ‘10 Ways to Keep Your Teeth Healthy’. Healthline, 13 May. San Francisco, CA: Healthline Media. https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/best-practices-for-healthy-teeth
Watson, S. and Wyatt, A. D. Jr. (2024). ‘Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease)’. WebMD, 9 February. New York, NY: WebMD LLC. https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/gingivitis-periodontal-disease
Cleveland Clinic (2023). ‘Cavities’. Cleveland Clinic, 27 March. Cleveland, OH: Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10946-cavities