Tooth Extractions

At Carolinas Center for Oral & Facial Surgery, our oral and maxillofacial surgeons provide expert care and personalized treatment for tooth extractions. Using advanced technology and the latest techniques, we deliver high-quality, predictable results. Whether due to damage, infection, or other reasons, we’re here to help.

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Restore Your Oral Health with a Tooth Extraction

Removing a tooth is a standard oral surgery procedure and may be recommended due to decay, injury, periodontal disease, or as a part of another dental treatment, such as braces or dental implants. Sometimes, one tooth or multiple teeth are extracted to preserve oral health and prevent complications, such as wisdom teeth removal. 

The Carolinas Center for Oral & Facial Surgery specialists treat patients of all ages across the Carolinas. When you come to one of our practices in North Carolina or South Carolina, one of our dedicated oral surgeons will perform a complete oral exam, review or order X-rays or 3D imaging, and discuss your options for anesthesia or sedation to ensure you feel comfortable and informed throughout your treatment.  

If the extracted tooth needs to be replaced, our doctors will discuss your options for tooth replacement, such as dental implants. 

Common Reasons for Tooth Extraction

A tooth or several teeth may need to be removed to protect or improve oral health. Common reasons include:

 

Dental Crowding

Dental crowding occurs when teeth lack proper space, often due to early loss of baby teeth, delayed eruption of permanent teeth, or a small jaw. Crowding can cause overlapping teeth, bite misalignment, and increased tooth decay and gum disease risk.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay, or a cavity, occurs when bacteria create a hole in the tooth. It can range from mild to severe, but all cases require treatment. Severe decay may lead to tooth loss and require extraction to restore oral health.

Periodontal Disease

Healthy gums are vital for oral health. Gum disease affects the tissues and bone supporting the teeth, leading to tooth decay and loss if untreated. Fortunately, it is both preventable and treatable.

Oral Health Treatment

Tooth extraction may be part of a more extensive treatment plan, like braces or implants. Since tooth loss is permanent, doctors only remove healthy teeth when necessary.

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Our skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeons offer a full range of tooth extraction services. We have the right solution whether you need a simple extraction or a more complex procedure.

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Treatment Options for Tooth Extraction

Carolinas Center for Oral & Facial Surgery offers various tooth extraction services tailored to your needs. Our primary extraction options include:

Simple Tooth Extraction

A simple extraction is performed for teeth that are visible above the gum line and can be easily removed. This procedure typically involves the following steps: 

  • Local Anesthesia: To minimize discomfort, we administer local anesthesia. 
  • Extraction: The tooth is loosened with specialized tools and gently removed. 

Surgical Tooth Extraction

In cases where a tooth is broken, impacted, or below the gum line, a surgical extraction is necessary. This more complex procedure includes: 

  • Sedation Options: We offer sedation options for your comfort, including nitrous oxide and IV sedation. 
  • Incision: An incision is made in the gum to access the tooth. 
  • Removal: The tooth is carefully removed, and the area is closed with sutures.

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth often require extraction due to lack of space or potential impaction. Our team utilizes advanced imaging technology to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and determine the best approach for extraction.

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Schedule a Consultation Today

If you’re concerned about a tooth that may need extraction, contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled oral surgeons.

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Anesthesia Options to Keep You Comfortable

Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia numbs a specific area without affecting the patient’s awareness, allowing them to remain awake while preventing discomfort. It is commonly used for minor medical procedures.

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Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a mild sedative inhaled by patients to help alleviate anxiety. It doesn’t cause unconsciousness and is often used alongside local anesthesia.

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IV Sedation

IV sedation is commonly used for moderate to complex surgical procedures involving the mouth or face. By administering directly into the bloodstream, this sedation often causes amnesia, meaning many patients do not remember the procedure afterward. 

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What Our Patients are Saying

  • Very Kind And Supportive

    Was referred by my dentist for two tricky tooth extractions. I was able to get in for consultation and surgery right away due to patient cancellations, and my 45-min surgery ended up only taking about half that time. The staff are very kind and supportive and I really felt heard when expressing concerns. I recommend this office due to the welcoming feel, the professional environment and the skilled surgeon, Dr Thakkar and team. I really appreciate the steps taken to explain and discuss treatment options and next steps. Hopefully I won’t need any more surgeries in the future, but if I do I will be more than comfortable coming to this office.
    - Kari K.
  • The Whole Experience Was Fantastic

    I'd give 10 stars if I could. The whole experience was fantastic. The ladies in the office are so personable and kind. I felt so comfortable there. Dr. Cook knows his stuff. Amazing at what he does. Very professional and yet super funny at the same time (which I really appreciated because it helped keep my nervousness in check!) He did my extractions and made it look easy.
    - Lily R.
  • Great Job Making My Daughter Comfortable

    We had a really good experience at Carolinas Center for Oral & Facial Surgery. The staff were courteous and did a great job making my daughter comfortable. She had 4 extractions done. The surgery was a success and the healing process was seamless!
    - Crystal G.
  • Precise Instructions

    Had three extractions in a month and did not experience any pain or discomfort. All necessary information and instructions were precise.
    - Juan R
  • Went Above And Beyond

    The care my boys received for their wisdom teeth extractions was top notch. From the consult and ease of scheduling, to the procedure and after care - each person we had contact with went above and beyond. Thank you.
    - Jackson H.

Recovery & Aftercare

Recovery from a tooth extraction is a crucial part of the process. Our team provides detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth healing process: 

Immediate Aftercare

  • Rest: Take it easy for the first 24 hours to help your body heal. 
  • Ice Packs: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling for the first 48 hours. 
  • Medication: Follow prescribed pain management and antibiotic instructions.

Long-Term Care

  • Rest: Take it easy for the first 24 hours to help your body heal. 
  • Ice Packs: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling for the first 48 hours. 
  • Medication: Follow prescribed pain management and antibiotic instructions.

Signs of Complications 

Be vigilant for signs of complications, such as excessive bleeding, severe pain, or fever. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact our office immediately.


Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extraction

How much does a tooth extraction cost?
Will I feel pain during the extraction?
How long does recovery take?
Can I drive myself home after the procedure?
What should I avoid after the extraction?

We're Here for You

If you have concerns about a tooth that you think needs to be extracted, the experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons at Carolinas Center for Oral & Facial Surgery are here to help optimize your oral health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our doctors. 

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