Extractions & Oral Surgery

Gentle Tooth Removal When Necessary

While our primary goal is always to save your natural teeth, sometimes extraction is the best option for your oral health. At Castlewood Dental Group, Dr. Jake Shelburne and Dr. Chris Davenport provide tooth extractions and oral surgery procedures to patients throughout Castlewood, the Tri-Cities region, and surrounding Southwest Virginia communities. We perform extractions as comfortably as possible and offer same-day replacement options so you’re never without a tooth if you don’t want to be.

When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?

Tooth extraction may be recommended when: A tooth is severely decayed and cannot be saved with root canal therapy Advanced gum disease has destroyed the supporting bone A tooth is broken or fractured below the gum line Crowding requires removal to prepare for orthodontic treatment Wisdom teeth are impacted or causing problems A tooth is infected and compromised immune system makes root canal risky Dr. Shelburne and Dr. Davenport will always discuss alternatives before recommending extraction. If extraction is the best option, we’ll explain why and discuss tooth replacement options.

Types of Extractions

Simple Extractions

A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that’s visible above the gum line. The tooth is loosened with an instrument called an elevator, then removed with forceps. Simple extractions are typically quick procedures performed under local anesthesia.

Surgical Extractions

Surgical extraction is needed when a tooth hasn’t fully erupted, is broken off at the gum line, or has curved roots that make simple extraction difficult. This requires a small incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth. Surgical extractions are still performed comfortably with local anesthesia, and sedation options are available for anxious patients.

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth often need to be removed because there isn’t enough room in the mouth for them to erupt properly. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, crowding, and damage to adjacent teeth. Our Castlewood practice provides wisdom teeth extractions for Tri-Cities area patients.

What to Expect During Extraction

Before your extraction, the area will be thoroughly numbed with local anesthesia. You’ll feel pressure during the procedure but should not experience pain. If you’re anxious about the procedure, we can discuss sedation options to help you feel more comfortable. The extraction process typically takes just a few minutes for a simple extraction. Surgical extractions may take longer depending on the complexity. After the tooth is removed, we’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing.

Same-Day Tooth Replacement

At Castlewood Dental Group, we understand that missing teeth affect your appearance and confidence. For patients who need an extraction, we can often provide same-day replacement options. This means you won’t have to go without a tooth while waiting for permanent solutions like dental implants or bridges to be completed. This immediate replacement option is particularly important for visible front teeth. We’ll discuss replacement options during your consultation so you know what to expect.

Recovery and Aftercare

After tooth extraction, proper care is important for healing. You should: Bite on gauze as directed to control bleeding Avoid rinsing vigorously for the first 24 hours Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed Eat soft foods for a few days Avoid smoking, which delays healing Follow all post-operative instructions provided by our team Most patients recover from simple extractions within a few days. Surgical extractions may require a slightly longer recovery period. Our Castlewood office will schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure you’re healing properly.

Replacing Extracted Teeth

After extraction, it’s important to replace missing teeth to prevent adjacent teeth from shifting and maintain proper jaw function. Replacement options include: Dental implants for permanent, natural-looking replacement Fixed bridges supported by adjacent teeth Partial or full dentures for multiple missing teeth Dr. Shelburne and Dr. Davenport will discuss which replacement option best suits your needs, budget, and timeline.

Cost and Insurance

The cost of tooth extraction varies depending on whether it’s a simple or surgical extraction and which tooth is being removed. Most dental insurance plans cover necessary extractions. Our insurance coordinator, Michelle, can verify your coverage and explain your out-of-pocket costs. We also offer financing options to help make treatment manageable for our Southwest Virginia patients.

Tooth Extractions in the Tri-Cities Region

Castlewood Dental Group serves patients throughout Castlewood, Russell County, Smyth County, and the greater Tri-Cities area. Dr. Shelburne and Dr. Davenport perform tooth extractions and oral surgery procedures with attention to your comfort and long-term oral health. If you’re experiencing tooth pain or have been told you need an extraction, we can evaluate your situation and discuss all available options.