Extractions


If you’ve been told you need a tooth removed — or you’re suffering with pain from an impacted wisdom tooth — Monkfield Dental in Cambourne, Cambridge offers safe, gentle extractions carried out under local anaesthetic. We treat patients from across Cambridge, CB23, and the surrounding Cambridgeshire area, providing straightforward, expert care from consultation through to recovery.


What is a Tooth Extraction?

A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. At Monkfield Dental, we perform both simple extractions and surgical extractions — always under local anaesthetic, always with your comfort as our priority.

Tooth removal may be recommended when a tooth is:

  • Severely decayed or damaged beyond repair
  • Causing crowding ahead of orthodontic treatment
  • Affected by advanced gum disease
  • Broken at or below the gumline
  • Impacted beneath the gum — most commonly a wisdom tooth

Simple Tooth Extractions in Cambridge

A simple extraction is used when the tooth is fully visible above the gumline and can be removed in one piece. This is one of the most routine dental procedures we carry out at our Cambourne practice, typically completed within a single short appointment.

Simple extractions are performed under local anaesthetic, meaning you’ll be fully comfortable and pain-free throughout. Most patients are surprised by how quick and straightforward the process is.

Common reasons for simple extraction:

  • Advanced tooth decay
  • Dental trauma or fracture
  • Tooth loosened by gum disease
  • Pre-orthodontic space creation

Surgical Tooth Extractions in Cambourne

A surgical extraction is required when a tooth cannot be removed in a straightforward way. This may be because the tooth is broken beneath the gumline, has complex or curved roots, or has not fully erupted through the gum.

During a surgical extraction, a small, precise incision is made in the gum tissue to access and remove the tooth — sometimes in sections. The procedure sounds more involved than a simple extraction, but you will remain completely comfortable under local anaesthetic throughout. Our experienced team at Monkfield Dental will explain every step clearly so you feel confident and informed before we begin.


Impacted Wisdom Tooth Removal in Cambridge & CB23

Wisdom teeth — the third molars at the very back of the mouth — are the last teeth to develop, typically in the late teens or early twenties. Because they arrive so late, there is often insufficient space for them to erupt fully or correctly.

An impacted wisdom tooth is one that becomes trapped beneath the gum or emerges at an angle, pushing against the neighbouring molar. Left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can cause:

  • Persistent pain and jaw stiffness
  • Repeated infections and swelling (pericoronitis)
  • Damage to the adjacent second molar
  • Cyst formation around the tooth root
  • Increased risk of tooth decay in hard-to-clean areas

At Monkfield Dental in Cambourne, we use dental X-rays to fully assess the position and complexity of your wisdom tooth before recommending treatment. Where removal is advised, we carry out the procedure with precision and care — ensuring you are relaxed, numb, and fully prepared throughout.


Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Recovery following a tooth extraction is usually quick and uncomplicated. Our team will provide you with full written aftercare instructions before you leave the practice. General guidance includes:

  • Bite on the gauze pad provided for 30–60 minutes after the procedure
  • Avoid rinsing, spitting, or smoking for the first 24 hours
  • Stick to soft foods and avoid hot drinks initially
  • Take over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen or paracetamol as needed
  • Gently rinse with warm salt water from the following day to support healing

If you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain after 48 hours, or signs of infection, contact Monkfield Dental straight away. We’re here to support you through every stage of your recovery.


Why Choose Monkfield Dental for Tooth Removal in Cambridge?

Patients across Cambourne, Cambridge, and Cambridgeshire choose Monkfield Dental for extractions because we combine clinical expertise with genuinely patient-centred care. We never rush, we never proceed until you’re comfortable, and we ensure you leave with everything you need for a smooth recovery.

  • ✔ Gentle extractions under local anaesthetic
  • ✔ Simple and surgical procedures available at our Cambourne practice
  • ✔ Specialist experience in impacted wisdom tooth removal
  • ✔ Digital X-rays for thorough pre-treatment assessment
  • ✔ Clear, jargon-free explanations at every stage
  • ✔ Full aftercare support and follow-up
  • ✔ Convenient location serving Cambridge, CB23, St Neots, and Huntingdon

Tooth Extraction FAQs

Will a tooth extraction hurt? No. All extractions at Monkfield Dental are carried out under local anaesthetic, which fully numbs the area. You may feel some pressure or movement during the procedure, but you should not feel pain. If you do, tell us immediately and we will stop.

How long does a tooth extraction take in Cambourne? A simple extraction typically takes 20–40 minutes. Surgical extractions and impacted wisdom teeth removal may take longer, depending on the complexity. Your dentist will give you a clear time estimate following your assessment.

How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction? Most patients recover within 3–5 days following a simple extraction. Surgical extractions and wisdom tooth removal may require up to 1–2 weeks for full healing. Following your aftercare instructions carefully will significantly speed up recovery.

What is dry socket and how do I avoid it? Dry socket occurs when the blood clot that forms in the extraction site becomes dislodged before the wound has healed, exposing the bone underneath. It can be very painful. To reduce the risk, avoid smoking, drinking through straws, or vigorous rinsing for at least 24–48 hours after treatment.

Do you offer wisdom tooth removal near Cambridge? Yes. Monkfield Dental is based in Cambourne, just off the A428, making us easily accessible for patients across Cambridge, CB23, Bourn, Papworth, St Neots, and Huntingdon.