Tooth Extraction in South Kensington
Gentle. Comfortable. Relief.
Sometimes, the kindest thing we can do for your smile is to remove a damaged tooth. Our team uses careful technique and thorough anaesthesia to ensure the process is as comfortable as possible — and the first step toward a healthier mouth.
When Is an Extraction Necessary?
We always aim to save natural teeth where possible.
At Smile Dentist, we always try to preserve natural teeth with treatments such as root canal therapy or dental crowns. However, extraction is sometimes the safest option for your overall health.
Common reasons for extraction include:
Severe Decay
The cavity has reached deep into the root and the tooth is too damaged to restore.
Infection (Abscess)
A pocket of infection has formed at the root tip, risking spread to the jaw or surrounding tissue.
Trauma
A tooth has cracked vertically below the gum line and cannot be restored.
Orthodontic Crowding
Removal to create space for teeth to be aligned with clear aligners or other orthodontic treatment.
Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth causing pain, infection (pericoronitis), or damage to adjacent teeth.
The Extraction Procedure
What to Expect During Your Appointment
We use thorough local anaesthesia to block the nerves completely before we begin. You should not feel pain during the extraction — only pressure as we gently loosen the tooth. If at any point you feel discomfort, we can administer more anaesthetic.
Step 1: Numbing
We apply a numbing gel before the injection, then use a powerful local anaesthetic to completely block the nerves around the tooth. We test the area thoroughly before proceeding.
Step 2: Loosening
We gently rock the tooth back and forth to widen the socket. You will feel pressure — similar to someone pressing on your shoulder — but this should not be sharp or painful.
Step 3: Removal
Once sufficiently loosened, the tooth is lifted out carefully. For surgical extractions, a small incision may be required to access the tooth.
Step 4: Clot Formation
We place a gauze pack for you to bite on. This helps a blood clot form in the socket, which is essential for healing. We provide full aftercare instructions before you leave.
Anxious About the Procedure?
We understand that dental extractions can cause anxiety. We take our time, explain each step, and use a gentle approach designed to help nervous patients feel more comfortable. Please let us know about any concerns before we begin.
Wisdom Tooth Removal
Surgical Extractions In-House
Wisdom teeth (third molars) are often "impacted" — stuck against the tooth in front or partially buried in the bone. This can cause pain, infection, and damage to neighbouring teeth.
Surgical Extraction Capabilities
3D CT Scanner
We map the exact position of roots and nerves in 3D before treatment, helping to maximise safety during complex extractions.
In-House Surgical Care
We handle complex cases in-house, which may save you a referral to a hospital oral surgery department.
Written Treatment Plan
Before any procedure, we provide a full written treatment plan including costs, risks, and alternatives.
For more detailed information on wisdom teeth, see our dedicated Wisdom Tooth Extraction page.
Aftercare: The First 48 Hours
Following these steps helps promote proper healing.
Do
Bite on the gauze pack for 20–30 minutes after the procedure
Eat soft, cool foods (yoghurt, soup, ice cream) for the first day
Take Ibuprofen and Paracetamol as directed for any soreness
Use warm saltwater rinses gently from day 2 onwards
Rest and avoid strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours
Avoid
Do NOT rinse or spit for the first 24 hours — the blood clot must stay in place
Avoid smoking — this significantly increases the risk of dry socket
Avoid drinking through a straw (the suction can dislodge the clot)
Avoid alcohol for 24 hours — it can interfere with healing
Do NOT poke the extraction site with your tongue or fingers
Understanding the Risks
Balanced Information for Informed Decisions
Dry Socket
If the blood clot is dislodged from the socket, the bone is exposed, causing significant pain. This is treatable — we place a soothing medicated dressing. Smoking and not following aftercare instructions increases this risk.
Infection
Although uncommon, infection can develop in the extraction site. Signs include increasing pain, swelling, or fever after 48 hours. Antibiotics may be prescribed if needed. Contact us immediately if you experience these symptoms.
Nerve Injury
Particularly relevant for lower wisdom teeth, there is a small risk of temporary or (rarely) permanent numbness to the lip, tongue, or chin. Our 3D CT scanning helps us assess and minimise this risk before surgery.
Prolonged Bleeding
Some bleeding is normal for the first few hours. Prolonged or excessive bleeding is uncommon. If bleeding does not stop after biting on gauze for 30 minutes, contact us for advice.
All risks are discussed in detail during your consultation. A written treatment plan is provided before any procedure.
Tooth Replacement Options
Planning for After Extraction
Leaving a gap after extraction (except for wisdom teeth) can cause adjacent teeth to drift, changes to your bite, and gradual bone loss. We can discuss replacement options before the extraction, so you have a clear plan from the start.
Dental Implants
A fixed, long-term solution. In some cases, the implant can be placed immediately after extraction.
Learn More →Dental Bridges
Fixed gap closure without surgery, using adjacent teeth for support.
Learn More →Dentures
A cost-effective removable solution, available in various materials.
Learn More →Extraction Fees
Members receive 50% off all treatment fees. A written treatment plan with exact costs is provided before any procedure.
| Treatment | Standard | Member |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Extraction | From £250.00 | From £125.00 |
| Complex / Surgical Extraction | From £650.00 | From £325.00 |
| Wisdom Tooth Removal | From £650.00 | From £325.00 |
| Emergency Appointment | From £95.00 | From £47.50 |
Membership Plan
Join for £20/month and receive 50% off all treatment fees. Members also receive two check-ups and two hygiene visits per year.
Learn About Membership →Real Patient Stories
How gentle extraction care has helped real patients.
Emergency Wisdom Tooth Removal
Patient Concern: A patient attended as an emergency with severe pain and swelling around a lower wisdom tooth that had been causing recurring infections.
Treatment: Following a thorough examination and 3D CT scan, the impacted wisdom tooth was surgically removed under local anaesthetic. The procedure took approximately 45 minutes.
Outcome: The patient reported significant relief from the recurring pain and infections that had been affecting their quality of life.
Individual results may vary. A consultation is required to determine suitability.
Extraction and Implant Planning
Patient Concern: A patient with a severely decayed upper premolar was anxious about losing the tooth and having a visible gap in their smile.
Treatment: The tooth was gently extracted, and a bone graft was placed to preserve the socket for a future dental implant. A temporary solution was provided for aesthetics while healing.
Outcome: The patient felt reassured by having a clear plan from extraction through to implant placement, and appreciated the seamless transition.
Individual results may vary. A consultation is required to determine suitability.
Your Dental Team
GDC-registered professionals providing your care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Smile Gallery
See the remarkable improvements we've achieved for our patients
BEFORE
AFTERRestoring a Chipped Front Tooth
Composite Bonding
BEFORE
AFTERTransforming Discoloured & Chipped Teeth
Composite Bonding
Tooth Extraction London — Gentle Surgical Care
At Smile Dentist in South Kensington, we provide gentle tooth extractions including simple, complex, and surgical wisdom tooth removal. Our in-house 3D CT scanner helps us plan complex cases with precision, and our team is experienced in caring for anxious patients.
We treat patients from across Kensington, Chelsea, Fulham, Knightsbridge, and Central London. Whether you need an emergency extraction, wisdom tooth removal, or are planning extractions as part of a larger treatment such as dental implants or dentures, we are here to help.
Visit Smile Dentist London
South Kensington, London
Address
20 Old Brompton Road,
South Kensington,
London, SW7 3DL
3-minute walk from South Kensington Station
Hours
Mon – Fri:9am – 6pm
Saturday:10am – 4pm
Sunday:10am – 4pm