At what age can one get a tooth extracted?

Oct 16, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Chao

Introduction

In general, there is no fixed age limit for tooth extraction; the decision primarily depends on whether there are dental issues requiring removal, such as severe decay, impaction, or irreparable damage. Both children and adults may require extractions under different circumstances. In daily life, it's important to maintain regular oral hygiene practices such as brushing teeth morning and night, and undergoing routine dental check-ups to detect and address dental problems early, with the goal of preserving healthy teeth whenever possible.

In general, there is no fixed age limit for tooth extraction. The key factor is whether the tooth has a condition that necessitates removal, such as severe decay, impaction, or being non-restorable. Both children and adults may require extractions under different circumstances. A detailed analysis is as follows:

During childhood, baby teeth may be extracted if they suffer from extensive decay that cannot be repaired, if they are retained and interfering with the eruption of permanent teeth, or if space needs to be created for orthodontic purposes. Extractions are commonly performed between ages 6 and 12 during the mixed dentition stage. Care must be taken during extraction to protect the developing permanent tooth buds and avoid damaging surrounding tissues to ensure normal eruption of permanent teeth.

In adulthood, extractions are typically due to impacted wisdom teeth, severe tooth decay, advanced periodontal disease causing excessive tooth mobility, or the need for orthodontic or restorative treatment requiring realignment of teeth. After extraction, adults should pay close attention to wound healing and prevent infection. If functional teeth are lost, subsequent restorative treatments such as implants or bridges may be necessary.

In daily life, it's important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing teeth twice a day and undergoing regular dental check-ups to detect and address dental problems early, preserving healthy natural teeth whenever possible. When a tooth does need to be removed, it's essential to seek care at a qualified medical facility and follow the dentist’s instructions for preoperative preparation and postoperative care to support long-term oral health.

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Can you talk after having a tooth extracted?

In general, whether one can speak after a tooth extraction depends on the time phase following the procedure. It is not advisable to talk much during the short period immediately after the extraction; however, normal speaking can resume after a certain recovery period. To promote proper healing of the extraction site, good daily care is essential, such as avoiding chewing on the extraction side, refraining from eating hard or hot foods, and gently rinsing the mouth after meals to maintain oral hygiene.

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Can patients with nephritis have a tooth extracted?

During the acute phase of nephritis, patients often experience symptoms such as edema, hypertension, proteinuria, and abnormal kidney function, along with reduced physical resistance. Tooth extraction at this stage may easily trigger infection, which could spread through the bloodstream and increase the burden on the kidneys, potentially worsening nephritis or even leading to severe complications such as renal failure. Therefore, it is essential to first stabilize the condition through appropriate treatment.

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How many days after tooth extraction can I eat normally?

In general, it takes about 3 to 7 days after tooth extraction to gradually resume normal eating, although the exact timing should be adjusted according to the healing progress of the wound. During the initial phase, soft and easily chewed foods are recommended to avoid irritating the extraction site. It is important to avoid touching or sucking the wound with your tongue. After meals, gently rinse your mouth with a mild mouthwash or warm salt water to maintain oral hygiene. Avoid spicy and irritating foods.

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Can you have a tooth extracted when you have rhinitis?

In general, whether tooth extraction can be performed during rhinitis depends on the condition of the rhinitis. Tooth extraction is usually acceptable when rhinitis symptoms are stable and there is no significant discomfort; however, it is not recommended during an acute episode of rhinitis. To minimize the impact of rhinitis on tooth extraction, proper daily management is essential, such as avoiding allergens, maintaining nasal hygiene, and using medications as prescribed to control symptoms.