About Tooth Extractions
Our first instinct is always to save a tooth, but sometimes removal is the right decision: decay or fracture has gone too far, an infection cannot be resolved, advanced gum disease has loosened the tooth, or a tooth must be removed to make room for orthodontic treatment or a denture. When that is the case, we make the procedure as calm and comfortable as possible and plan the replacement before the tooth comes out, so you are never left with a gap and no path forward.
A simple extraction is the removal of a tooth that is fully erupted and visible above the gum. After thorough numbing, Dr. Carter gently loosens the tooth and lifts it from its socket. Most patients are surprised by how quick it is and report pressure rather than pain. We place gauze, review aftercare in detail, and send you home with written instructions. Healing is usually uneventful, with discomfort peaking in the first two days and easing steadily afterward.
Replacing the tooth matters. An empty space lets neighboring teeth drift and the jawbone shrink. Depending on the location and your goals, the replacement may be a dental implant, a bridge or a partial denture. We discuss those options at the same visit and can sometimes place a bone-preserving graft at the time of extraction in coordination with the surgical office to keep an implant possible later.
Dr. Lance Carter is a general dentist, and oral surgery is a recognized dental specialty. Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth, teeth with curved or fractured roots, teeth near the nerve canal, and patients who require IV sedation or general anesthesia are referred to a local oral surgeon. We will tell you at the diagnostic visit which category your tooth falls into, and we remain your dental home throughout.
Benefits
- Thorough numbing and a calm, unhurried approach
- Same-day relief for teeth causing pain or infection during office hours
- Replacement options planned before the tooth is removed
- Clear referral to an oral surgeon when a case needs one
- Oral sedation available for anxious patients
Is it right for you?
Patients with an erupted tooth that is broken beyond repair, severely decayed, loose from gum disease, or causing an infection that root canal therapy cannot resolve. Also patients who need a tooth removed for orthodontic space or before a denture. If your tooth is an impacted wisdom tooth, has complex root anatomy, or if you need to be asleep for the procedure, an oral surgeon is the right provider and we will refer you promptly.
What happens, step by step
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Exam and X-ray to evaluate the tooth, roots and surrounding bone
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Discussion of alternatives, replacement options and any referral
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Numbing and gentle removal of the tooth
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Gauze placement and detailed aftercare instructions
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Follow-up check and planning for the replacement
What to expect at your visit
A simple extraction visit takes about 30 to 45 minutes, most of it numbing and preparation. You will feel pressure but not pain; if you do, tell us and we add anesthetic. Once the tooth is out, you bite on gauze for 30 to 45 minutes to form a clot. Numbness lasts a few hours. Discomfort is usually well managed with over-the-counter medication, and most patients return to normal activities the next day. Swelling, if any, peaks around day two.
Why choose Regency Dental Group
Nobody looks forward to an extraction, so we focus on the things that make it easier: a full explanation beforehand, complete numbing, a gentle technique, and a team that checks on you throughout. Dr. Carter is honest about which extractions belong in a general practice and which belong with an oral surgeon, and he will not attempt a case that should be referred. We plan your replacement at the same time so the space is not forgotten. Oral sedation is available for anxious patients, and we are in network with Delta Dental of California, Cigna, MetLife and Dental Benefit Providers.
Aftercare
Keep gauze in place with firm pressure for 30 to 45 minutes. For 24 hours do not rinse vigorously, spit, drink through a straw, smoke or exercise hard; these can dislodge the clot and cause a painful dry socket. Eat soft, cool foods and chew on the other side. After 24 hours, rinse gently with warm salt water. Call us if bleeding persists, pain increases after day three, or you notice a bad taste or odor.
Cost, insurance and timing
Simple extractions are usually covered as a basic service. Surgical extractions performed by an oral surgeon are billed by that office. We provide a written estimate for our services and for any replacement plan. If you take blood thinners, bisphosphonates or have certain medical conditions, tell us in advance so we can coordinate with your physician.
Frequently asked questions
Do you remove wisdom teeth?
Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth are referred to an oral surgeon. Fully erupted wisdom teeth may sometimes be removed here; Dr. Carter will evaluate and advise.
Will I be asleep for the extraction?
Simple extractions are done with local anesthetic. Oral sedation is available to help you relax. Patients who need IV sedation or general anesthesia are referred to an oral surgeon.
How long does it take to heal?
The socket closes over in about one to two weeks. Bone fills in over several months. Most patients feel normal within a few days.
Do I need to replace the tooth?
In most cases, yes, to prevent shifting and bone loss. Options include an implant, bridge or partial denture, which we plan with you in advance.
Dr. Lance Carter is a general dentist licensed by the Dental Board of California. Services on this page that are associated with a recognized dental specialty are provided by a general dentist who is not a licensed specialist in that field. When a case is better served by a specialist, we say so and coordinate the referral.
The information on this page is general education, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Outcomes vary by patient. Please schedule an exam to discuss your specific situation.