Tooth Extraction
Simple removals and wisdom teeth extractions
Nobody looks forward to having a tooth pulled. Our job is to make it far easier than you expect, with a gentle hand, a clear explanation, and no rushing.
Sometimes removing a tooth is the healthiest choice. A calm and careful extraction protects the rest of your mouth and sets up whatever comes next.
What is a tooth extraction?
A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth that is too damaged, decayed, or crowded to keep. A simple extraction removes a tooth that is fully in place, while a surgical extraction is used for teeth that are broken at the gumline or impacted, like some wisdom teeth. The area is fully numbed so you stay comfortable.
Why a tooth might need to come out
We always try to save a tooth first. When that is not possible or not in your best interest, extraction may be recommended for reasons like:
Severe decay that has gone too deep to repair
Advanced gum disease that has loosened the tooth
A tooth broken below the gumline
Crowding, sometimes before orthodontic treatment
Impacted or problematic wisdom teeth
Baby teeth that will not come out on their own
If a tooth needs oral surgery beyond what we handle in-office, we will tell you and refer you to a trusted specialist.
Comfort comes standard
Extractions rank near the top of the list of appointments people dread, so this is where our comfort-first approach matters most. We take the time to keep you at ease, explain each step before it happens, keep the area fully numb, and check in with you the whole way through. We do not rush, and we do not judge.
Every patient is welcome to our comfort menu, whatever helps you relax:
Headphones to tune out the sounds
A blanket and a neck pillow to settle in
A stress ball to hold onto
Coffee or juice while you get comfortable
The goal is simple: for your visit to feel less like a trip to the dentist and more like being taken care of by people who are looking after you.
"I needed an emergency tooth extraction for an infected wisdom tooth. Kayla was very gentle, nice, and attentive, constantly asking if I was okay and not in any pain. Being pregnant and very anxious, they made me feel at ease during the entire procedure…
I highly recommend this dentist!"
- Erica J., Google Review
I highly recommend this dentist!"
- Erica J., Google Review
What to expect
1. A look and a plan.
We take an image, confirm that extraction is the right call, and explain what will happen.
2. Numbing the area.
We make sure the tooth and the area around it are completely numb before we begin. You may feel pressure, but you should not feel pain.
3. The extraction.
Working gently, we remove the tooth. Most simple extractions take only a few minutes.
4. Aftercare instructions.
We send you home with clear, simple instructions and make sure you know how to reach us if you have questions.
Healing after an extraction
Most people feel noticeably better within a few days. We will tell you what is normal and when to call us.
Bite gently on the gauze we give you to help a clot form
Rest for the first day, and avoid strenuous activity
Skip straws, smoking, and spitting for a few days
Stick to soft foods and chew on the other side
Ease back into normal brushing, and brush gently around the area.
Replacing the tooth
Once the area heals, it is worth thinking about replacing the tooth so the others do not shift into the space. Depending on the tooth, options include a bridge, a partial denture, or an implant restoration. We will walk you through what makes sense for you, with no pressure.
Crowns & Bridges 
The cost of an extraction
The cost depends on the tooth and whether the extraction is simple or surgical, so we give you a clear number first. If you have dental insurance, we file your claim for you.
No insurance? Our in-house dental plan starts at $36 a month and includes 20% off other treatments, on top of your covered cleanings and exams.
See Our In-House Plan $36/mo
to start
No insurance? Our in-house dental plan provides discounts on care and starts at just $36 per month — so cost doesn't keep you from the smile you've been picturing.
Not sure if a tooth needs to come out?
If you are in pain or think a tooth may need to come out, don't wait it out. Give us a call.
We can often get patients in quickly.
(757) 529-2733We can often get patients in quickly.
Tooth extraction FAQs
Does getting a tooth pulled hurt?
The area is fully numbed first, so you should feel pressure but not pain during the extraction. Any soreness afterward is manageable, and we tell you how to handle it.
I'm really anxious about this. What can you do?
A lot. We move at your pace, explain everything before we do it, and offer our comfort menu, from headphones to a blanket. Tell us you are nervous and we will take extra care with you.
How long does recovery take?
Most people feel much better within a few days. Full healing of the socket takes a few weeks, and we give you instructions to make it smooth.
Do you remove wisdom teeth?
We handle many extractions, including some wisdom teeth. If a case needs oral surgery beyond our office, we will refer you to a trusted specialist.
Should I replace the tooth after it is removed?
Usually yes, unless it was a wisdom tooth or baby tooth. Replacing a missing tooth keeps the others from shifting. We will go over your options when you are ready.
What is dry socket and how do I avoid it?
Dry socket happens when the healing clot is dislodged. You lower the risk by avoiding straws, smoking, and spitting for a few days after your extraction.