Overview

An extirpation is a dental treatment to remove a nerve from inside your tooth. It's the first stage of root canal treatment, and is done to help with your dental pain.

A temporary filling is put into your tooth until you can see your local dentist. Your tooth will still need more treatment.

It is important for you to see your local dentist as soon as you can, to have the treatment completed and get a permanent filling.

Until you see your dentist, be careful when eating to reduce the chance of breaking your tooth.

Looking after your mouth

Your mouth will feel numb after your treatment, and this might last for a few hours.

You might also notice some bruising or swelling next to the tooth. This will ease with time.

You should continue to brush your teeth 2 times each day with a fluoride toothpaste. Use any interdental cleaning aids (such as dental pics, floss or a water jet) that you would normally use.

Pain

It is normal for you to have some pain, which should ease over the next few days. You will have an antibacterial dressing on your tooth to help reduce pain after treatment.

You can take regular painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, if you need to. You can buy these medicines from a pharmacy or shop. Follow the instructions on the packet, and do not take more than the recommended amount (dose)

If you have any problems

Your local dentist can give you advice and answer any questions about the next stage of your treatment.