Tooth Extractions New Bern, NC

Sometimes, removing a tooth is the healthiest choice for your smile. At New Bern Smiles, Dr. Stephen Hoard and Dr. Nicole Hoard provide gentle, expert tooth extractions to relieve pain, stop infection, and protect your long-term oral health. Whether you need a simple extraction or a more complex procedure, we’ll make sure you’re comfortable and informed every step of the way.

If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain, swelling, or have a tooth that’s too damaged to save, call our New Bern dental office. We’re here to help you get relief and restore your smile.

Why You Might Need a Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is a common procedure in general dentistry. It’s recommended when a tooth is too damaged or infected to be saved with a filling, crown, or root canal.  Some of the most common reasons for an extraction include:

• Severe tooth decay has destroyed the tooth structure.
• Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) that has loosened the tooth.
• Impacted wisdom teeth that are causing pain, crowding, or infection.
• Broken or fractured teeth that extend below the gumline.
• Overcrowding to prepare for orthodontic treatment.

We always explore every option to save a natural tooth first. But when an extraction is the best path forward, you can trust our experienced team to handle it with skill and compassion.

Types of Tooth Extractions

We perform two main types of extractions at our New Bern office:

1. Simple Extractions: A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that is visible in your mouth. Dr. Hoard will numb the area with local anesthesia, gently loosen the tooth, and remove it with specialized instruments. This is a quick procedure, typically taking 20-40 minutes.
2. Surgical Extractions: Surgical extractions are more complex. It’s needed when a tooth is broken off at the gumline, hasn’t fully erupted (impacted), or has curved roots. Dr. Hoard may make a small incision in your gum and remove the tooth in sections. He may also place stitches to help the area heal.

The Tooth Extraction Procedure: What to Expect

We know that the thought of an extraction can be stressful. That’s why we prioritize your comfort and keep you informed throughout the entire process.

Your Consultation

Your first step is a consultation with Dr. Hoard. He will examine your tooth, take digital X-rays to assess the root and surrounding bone, and discuss your health history. He’ll explain why an extraction is recommended and answer all your questions. You’ll receive a clear treatment plan with transparent pricing.

The Day of Your Extraction

Before we begin, Dr. Hoard will numb the area with a local anesthetic to ensure you feel no pain. You may feel some pressure as the tooth is gently loosened and removed, but the procedure itself should be painless. If you feel any discomfort, let us know immediately.

Aftercare and Recovery

Following the extraction, we’ll provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.  Here are some general tips:

• Rest: Take it easy for the first 24 hours. Keep your head elevated.
• Bleeding: Bite gently on the gauze pad we provide to control bleeding. Change it as needed.
• Swelling: Apply an ice pack to the outside of your jaw for 10-20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.
• Eating: Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup for the first few days. Avoid crunchy, sticky, or very hot foods.
• Avoid: Don’t smoke, drink from a straw, or spit forcefully for at least 24 hours. These actions can dislodge the blood clot and cause a painful condition called “dry socket.”
• Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss your other teeth, but be very gentle around the extraction site. After 24 hours, you can rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater solution.

Most patients feel much better within a few days. Full healing of the bone can take several weeks.  We’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to check on your healing.