Oral surgery is needed in many situations, such as removing wisdom teeth, preparing the mouth for dentures, or extracting infected and non-restorable teeth.
We offer extractions and alveoloplasty — shaping of the bone after an extraction to help a denture fit better — in a comfortable, friendly setting.
Oral Surgery Procedures We Offer
Tooth Extractions
Removal of a tooth that is badly damaged, infected or can’t be saved.
Surgical Root Tip Extractions
Removal of a broken root or root tip that remains in the bone after a tooth has fractured.
Alveoloplasty
Smoothing and reshaping the jawbone after extractions so that dentures fit comfortably and securely.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Needed?
- Severe decay or a fracture that can’t be repaired
- Infection that can’t be treated another way
- Advanced gum disease that has loosened the tooth
- Wisdom teeth that are causing problems
- Preparing the mouth for dentures
Whenever possible, we try to save your natural tooth — for example with a root canal and crown. If an extraction is the best choice, we’ll talk about replacing the tooth with an implant, a bridge or a denture.
Dr. Holcombe will evaluate your wisdom teeth and let you know whether they can be removed in our office or whether a referral to an oral surgeon is the better choice.
What to Expect
Exam & X-rays
We evaluate the tooth and surrounding bone and explain your options.
Numbing
Local anesthetic numbs the area so you feel pressure, not pain.
Removal
The tooth or root tip is gently removed, and the bone is smoothed if needed.
Aftercare
You go home with gauze and clear written instructions.
Replacement plan
We discuss options to replace the tooth if needed.
Recovering After an Extraction
- Bite gently on gauze to help a blood clot form.
- Rest for the remainder of the day and keep your head elevated.
- For the first few days, avoid straws, smoking and forceful spitting, which can dislodge the clot and cause a painful “dry socket.”
- Use an ice pack on the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling.
- Eat soft foods and chew on the other side.
- Take any medications exactly as directed.
- Call us if you have heavy bleeding, increasing pain or swelling, or a fever.
Why Patients Choose Dr. Holcombe for Tooth Extractions
- Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from East Carolina University; undergraduate studies at North Carolina State University
- Active member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, North Carolina Dental Society and Buncombe County Dental Society
- A small, family-owned practice where you see the same dentist every visit, led by Dr. Holcombe since 2018
- Personal care and long-term relationships: we take the time to listen, answer questions and explain your options
Tooth Extractions: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a tooth extraction hurt?
The area is fully numbed, so you should feel pressure but not sharp pain during the procedure. Some soreness afterward is normal and usually improves over a few days.
How long does it take to recover from an extraction?
Most people feel much better within a few days after a simple extraction. Surgical extractions can take a little longer. Following your aftercare instructions helps you heal well.
What is a dry socket?
A dry socket happens when the blood clot in the extraction site is dislodged too early, exposing the bone. It can be quite painful. Avoiding straws, smoking and forceful spitting for the first few days lowers the risk. Call us if you think you have one.
Should I replace a tooth that was extracted?
Usually, yes. A gap can let neighboring teeth shift and make chewing harder. Options include implants, bridges and partial dentures.
What is alveoloplasty?
Alveoloplasty is the smoothing and reshaping of the jawbone, typically after extractions, so a denture fits better and more comfortably.