top of page
Tooth Extraction
Tooth Extraction

Tooth Extraction

Sanftes marmoriertes Beige-Muster_edited.jpg

Tooth Extraction in Basel

In brief: tooth extraction


Tooth extraction may be appropriate when a tooth can no longer be predictably preserved or when the risks of keeping it outweigh the benefits. At our practice in Basel, we assess the diagnosis, anatomical factors, alternatives and the planned replacement option before extraction whenever possible. The aim is a tissue-preserving procedure, appropriate pain management and clear aftercare.


Key considerations at a glance


  • when an infection, fracture or structural problem cannot be predictably managed by tooth-preserving treatment.

  • an atraumatic approach can help preserve bone and soft tissue for healing and possible future restoration.

  • the next step – such as immediate or delayed implant placement, a bridge or a removable prosthesis – is considered before extraction where possible.

  • local anaesthesia, postoperative instructions and appropriate analgesia are part of the treatment plan.

  • indication, risks, alternatives, follow-up and expected costs are discussed before treatment.


When may a tooth need to be removed?


  • A tooth that can no longer be predictably restored, for example because too little sound tooth structure remains or caries extends too deeply

  • Vertical root fracture or crack with a poor prognosis

  • Persistent or recurrent infection when reasonable tooth-preserving treatment options are no longer suitable

  • Advanced periodontitis with severe loss of support, mobility and a poor long-term prognosis

  • when there is a clinical indication such as recurrent inflammation, pathology or other relevant problems

  • Before restorative or implant treatment when objective assessment shows that preserving the tooth is not a predictable option


Important: When a natural tooth can be predictably preserved and remains useful within the overall treatment plan, tooth preservation is usually considered before extraction. We discuss this individually.

How a tooth extraction is carried out


  1. Diagnostics & Planning

    Clinical examination and, where indicated, radiographic imaging to assess the roots, bone and proximity to structures such as nerves or the maxillary sinus.


  2. 2. Discussion of alternatives

    We compare tooth preservation and extraction, explain relevant risks and discuss the planned replacement and timing.


  3. 3. Local anaesthesia

    Local anaesthetic is used so that sharp pain should not be felt during the extraction. Pressure and movement can still be noticeable.


  1. 4. Tissue-preserving extraction

    The tooth is removed as atraumatically as the clinical situation allows, with particular attention to preserving surrounding bone and soft tissue.


  2. 5. Wound management

    The socket is assessed and cleaned as required; sutures may be placed, followed by clear instructions on cooling, eating, oral hygiene and pain medication.


  3. 6. Follow-up

    Healing is reviewed when clinically indicated, sutures are removed if necessary and definitive tooth replacement is planned.



Options after extraction


  • Immediate implant placement in selected cases

  • Delayed implant placement after healing

  • Conventional or adhesive bridge, depending on the clinical situation

  • Removable dental prosthesis (interim or definitive)


We explain which option is biologically, functionally and practically appropriate in your case, including cleansability and long-term maintenance.


Risks and possible complications


Even with careful treatment, complications can occur, including:


  • Swelling, bruising or tenderness during the first few days

  • which is usually controllable but can occasionally require further treatment

  • delayed healing or infection

  • Dry socket (alveolar osteitis), particularly after traumatic extraction and more commonly in smokers

  • Communication with the maxillary sinus, particularly with upper posterior teeth

  • Temporary or, rarely, persistent nerve disturbance depending on tooth position and anatomy


Careful diagnosis, atraumatic technique and clear aftercare instructions help reduce these risks but cannot eliminate them completely.


Costs and Individual Treatment Planning


Costs depend on the difficulty and duration of treatment, required imaging, surgical complexity and wound management.


  • Simple extraction: charged according to the time and complexity required

  • More complex or surgical extraction:


    Before treatment, we explain the anticipated level of complexity and provide cost information where reasonably possible.


Verwandte Themen


  • Dental Emergency

  • Atraumatic Tooth Extraction (Benex)

  • Dental Implants

  • Bone Grafting / Sinus Lift

  • Wisdom teeth

  • Root Canal Treatment – tooth preservation



Frequently asked questions


The gum often closes substantially within one to two weeks, while bone healing takes considerably longer. The exact timeline depends on the tooth, extraction and planned replacement.

Follow the written instructions provided by the practice. Typical advice includes cooling as needed, avoiding vigorous rinsing on the first day, avoiding strenuous exercise and smoking, and choosing softer foods initially.

Sometimes. Immediate implant placement depends on factors such as infection, bone anatomy, soft tissue, primary stability and individual risk factors. It is assessed case by case.


Next steps


If you have pain, swelling or have been advised that a tooth may need extraction, we can assess the tooth and explain whether preservation or removal offers the more predictable option.


Diagnostics and Planning


Before a surgical procedure, the indication and individual risk profile are assessed. Anatomical structures, the inflammatory situation, medical conditions, medications and the planned subsequent treatment are considered. Where input from another discipline is useful, planning is coordinated on an interdisciplinary basis.


Limitations, Risks and Alternatives


Surgical procedures can involve swelling, pain, postoperative bleeding, infection or delayed healing. Depending on the region, neighbouring teeth, nerves, the maxillary sinus or soft tissues may also be relevant. Individual risks are discussed before treatment and weighed against the available alternatives.


Tooth extraction in Basel: experience and clinical context


In our Basel practice, surgical procedures are planned only when there is a clear indication. The focus is on tissue-preserving techniques, clear discussion of risks and appropriate follow-up treatment. For procedures outside our own area of focus, we work with specialised oral and maxillofacial surgical colleagues.More about Dr Thomas Gasser’s training and qualifications.


Related Topics on Our Website


Depending on the individual situation, Atraumatic Tooth Extraction (Benex),Wisdom teeth or Dental Implants may also be relevant.You can find further dental services in Basel in our treatment overview.


Literature and Scientific Context


PubMed PMID 22814758 – Alveolar ridge preservation. A systematic review


PubMed PMID 30057608 – Ridge Preservation Procedures after Tooth Extractions: A Systematic Review


The selected literature provides scientific context. Which findings are relevant to a specific treatment depends on the diagnosis, the starting situation, individual risks and the treatment goals agreed together.

Dentist Basel

Dentist Basel

Tooth Extraction in Basel

These treatments are part of general dentistry. In our Basel practice, we follow a structured approach: precise diagnostics, calm and clear explanations, and solutions that are functionally sound and stable in the long term.

Tooth Extraction Basel
Sanftes marmoriertes Beige-Muster_edited.jpg

Other treatments

Denture Care

Von Untersuchung bis Wurzelkanal – moderne Zahnmedizin für Ihre Zahngesundheit.

Review and adjustment of a dental prosthesis

Guided Implant Surgery

Von Untersuchung bis Wurzelkanal – moderne Zahnmedizin für Ihre Zahngesundheit.

3D-guided implant placement using a surgical guide

TMJ Disorders

Von Untersuchung bis Wurzelkanal – moderne Zahnmedizin für Ihre Zahngesundheit.

Functional assessment for temporomandibular joint symptoms
Sanftes marmoriertes Beige-Muster_edited.jpg
Sanftes marmoriertes Beige-Muster_edited.jpg
bottom of page