When a tooth can’t be saved, we’re here to help – gently and safely.

At Applecross House Dentists in Matamata, we are highly skilled in saving teeth, and we’ll always explore every option to preserve yours. However, in cases where a tooth is too decayed, damaged, or infected to restore, an extraction may be the best step to protect your overall health.

What to Expect.

A dental extraction is the removal of a tooth from the bone socket, most commonly done when a tooth is broken or severely decayed and can’t be repaired with a filling or crown.
Other reasons for tooth removal include:
- Wisdom teeth (before or after eruption)
- Creating space for orthodontic treatment
- Infection risks
- Preparation for certain medical treatments
There are two types of extractions:
- Simple extractions are performed on visible teeth using local anaesthetic. The tooth is gently loosened and removed with forceps.
- Surgical extractions are required for teeth that are broken below the gum line or haven’t fully erupted. The dentist may make a small incision in the gum and remove surrounding bone if necessary. Conscious sedation is available for your comfort.
After an extraction, we can guide you through your tooth replacement options to restore both function and aesthetics.
Wisdom teeth typically appear in your late teens or early twenties. Often, there isn’t enough space for them to fully emerge, leading to impaction — when the tooth is stuck beneath the gum or only partially comes through.
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause ongoing discomfort, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth. Removal is recommended when they:
- Cause pain, swelling, or repeated infections
- Are difficult to clean, leading to decay or gum issues
- Crowd or damage neighbouring teeth
- Contribute to cysts or other jaw problems
At Applecross House, wisdom teeth removal is performed under local anaesthetic, with the option of conscious sedation for those who prefer a more relaxed experience. If the tooth is deeply impacted, it may need to be sectioned and removed in parts. Sutures may be required depending on the extraction site.
We use CBCT (Cone Beam CT) technology to capture detailed 3D images of your teeth, jaw, nerves, and soft tissue. This allows for more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning — especially for surgical extractions and implant placement. CBCT goes far beyond a standard X-ray and helps us deliver safer, more predictable results.