Tooth extraction sounds dramatic, but when a tooth is painful, infected, loose, or beyond repair, removing it is often the fastest route back to comfort. The goal is simple: remove the source of pain and infection so your pet can eat, sleep, and behave normally again.
Dental disease and fractured teeth can be extremely painful, even when pets continue eating. Extraction removes the diseased tooth and the inflammation around it. Most pets recover well and often feel noticeably better once the painful tooth is gone.
Your pet is admitted and the mouth is assessed under anaesthetic. We confirm which teeth are affected and plan extractions based on comfort and long-term outcome.
Extractions are performed carefully to remove the entire tooth and to support good healing. If closure is required, the gum is sutured to protect the site. Your pet goes home with a clear aftercare plan and guidance on what to expect during recovery.
Many pets are brighter and more comfortable once painful teeth are removed. Chronic dental pain can show up as subtle behaviour changes - irritability, chewing differently, avoiding certain foods, or just seeming “not themselves”.
Extractions can feel like a big decision, but for a tooth that cannot be saved, removal is often the kindest and most durable solution.
Most pets go home the same day. We usually recommend softer food for a period of time and avoiding hard chew toys while healing occurs. We provide clear instructions on feeding, activity, and comfort, as well as what is normal during the first few days.
If you would prefer extra time before your pet goes home, extended boarding options may be available depending on your situation and your pet’s needs.
The procedure is performed under anaesthesia with pain relief planned before, during and after treatment. Many pets are more comfortable quickly because the painful tooth is no longer there. You can read more about dental anaesthesia and pain relief.
Dental x-rays help us assess roots, surrounding bone and whether a tooth or root has been fully removed. This matters because retained or diseased roots can keep causing pain. The treatment planning page explains how x-rays guide these decisions.
Most pets eat very well after painful teeth are removed, once healing is underway. Dogs and cats do not need every tooth to eat comfortably, but they do need a mouth free from chronic pain and infection. We will explain the feeding plan and recovery steps before your pet goes home.
If you’ve noticed mouth pain, swelling, bad breath, a fractured tooth, or changes in eating, we can assess your pet and talk you through whether extractions are recommended and what recovery typically looks like.
