When a tooth is badly broken, decayed or infected and cannot be saved, an emergency tooth extraction relieves the pain and removes the source of infection. Our emergency dentist in Great Yarmouth offers urgent, same-day extractions where clinically appropriate, carried out gently under local anaesthetic. We always try to save a natural tooth first, and only remove it when that is genuinely the best option for your health and comfort.
When is an emergency extraction needed?
Removing a tooth is always a last resort, but it may be necessary when:
- A tooth is too badly decayed or broken to repair
- There is a severe infection or abscess that cannot be resolved another way
- A tooth is cracked below the gum line
- A wisdom tooth is causing repeated pain or infection
- A tooth is very loose due to advanced gum disease
- Severe pain is not settling with other treatment
What happens during an emergency extraction
Your dentist will examine the tooth and usually take an x-ray to plan the safest approach. The area is fully numbed with local anaesthetic so the procedure is comfortable, and the tooth is removed gently. If there is active infection, we may first control it — sometimes with antibiotics — before removing the tooth, and we will always explain what is happening and the costs before starting. Where a tooth can be saved instead, we will discuss options such as root canal treatment or a filling.
Aftercare following an extraction
- Bite gently on the gauze provided for 30–60 minutes to help a clot form
- Avoid rinsing, spitting or hot drinks for the first 24 hours
- Do not smoke, as it slows healing and raises the risk of dry socket
- Eat soft foods and chew on the other side for a few days
- Take over-the-counter pain relief as directed
- Contact us if you have increasing pain after a few days, which can be a sign of dry socket
Emergency tooth extraction — FAQs
Often yes, where it is clinically appropriate. Call as early in the day as you can so we can arrange an urgent appointment.
Does having a tooth removed hurt?
The area is fully numbed with local anaesthetic, so you should feel pressure but not pain during the extraction.
Can you remove an infected tooth?
Sometimes the infection needs to be brought under control first, occasionally with antibiotics, before the tooth is removed. The dentist will advise on the safest approach.
How much does an emergency extraction cost?
The emergency appointment starts from £65, and the cost of any treatment is explained clearly before it begins.
Is there an alternative to extraction?
Where possible we try to save the tooth with root canal treatment or a filling. Extraction is only recommended when the tooth cannot be saved.
