Tooth Extractions in Alpharetta, GA

When a tooth is non-restorable—or wisdom teeth crowd, cause pain, or threaten alignment—extractions protect your long-term health. We plan carefully, keep you comfortable, and provide clear aftercare.

When Is Extraction Necessary?

We always try to save natural teeth when possible. However, extraction may be the best option when:

Severe Decay: Tooth is too damaged to restore with filling or crown
Advanced Gum Disease: Bone loss makes tooth unsalvageable
Infection/Abscess: Root canal isn't possible or has failed
Fractured Tooth: Crack extends below gumline or into root
Crowding: Orthodontic treatment requires space
Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Causing pain, infection, or threatening other teeth
Baby Teeth: Not falling out naturally, blocking permanent teeth

Types of Extractions

Simple Extraction

For teeth visible above gumline with intact roots. Tooth is loosened and removed with dental forceps.

Procedure Time: 20-40 minutes
Anesthesia: Local numbing
Recovery: 3-7 days

Surgical Extraction

For teeth broken at gumline, impacted, or with curved roots. Requires small incision in gum tissue.

Procedure Time: 45-90 minutes
Anesthesia: Local numbing + sedation options
Recovery: 7-14 days

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Removal of third molars (wisdom teeth), often impacted or causing crowding.

Procedure Time: 45-90 minutes (all 4 teeth)
Anesthesia: Local + sedation recommended
Recovery: 7-10 days

The Extraction Process

1
Examination & X-Rays: Assess tooth position, root structure, and surrounding bone. Discuss replacement options.
2
Anesthesia: Local anesthetic numbs area completely. Sedation available for anxious patients or complex cases.
3
Tooth Removal: Gently loosen tooth and remove. For surgical extractions, small incision may be needed.
4
Socket Cleaning: Clean extraction site, remove any debris or infection.
5
Bone Grafting (if needed): Place bone graft material to preserve socket for future implant.
6
Sutures: Stitch gum tissue closed (dissolves in 7-10 days).
7
Gauze & Instructions: Bite on gauze to control bleeding. Receive detailed aftercare instructions.

Sedation Options

We offer multiple sedation levels for your comfort:

Local Anesthesia Only: Numbing injection, fully awake
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): Relaxed, calm, minimal memory of procedure
Oral Sedation: Take pill before appointment, drowsy but responsive
IV Sedation: Deep relaxation, little to no memory (arranged with specialist)

Recovery & Aftercare

First 24 Hours:

Bite Gauze: 30-45 minutes to control bleeding
Ice Pack: 20 minutes on/off to reduce swelling
Rest: Take it easy, avoid strenuous activity
No Smoking: Delays healing, increases dry socket risk
Soft Foods: Yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, soup
No Straws: Suction can dislodge blood clot
Pain Management: Take prescribed or OTC pain relievers
Sleep Elevated: Extra pillow reduces swelling

Days 2-7:

Gentle Rinsing: Salt water rinses 3-4 times daily (after 24 hours)
Soft Diet: Gradually add foods as comfort allows
Oral Hygiene: Brush gently, avoid extraction site
Swelling Peaks: Day 2-3, then improves
Resume Activity: Gradually return to normal routine

Dry Socket Prevention

Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) occurs when blood clot dislodges, exposing bone. It's painful but preventable:

Don't Smoke: #1 cause of dry socket
No Straws: Suction dislodges clot
Gentle Rinsing: Don't rinse vigorously first 24 hours
Soft Foods: Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods
Follow Instructions: Take all prescribed medications

Dry Socket Symptoms: Severe pain 3-4 days after extraction, bad breath, visible bone in socket. Call immediately if suspected—we can treat it same-day.

Tooth Replacement Options

After extraction, replace missing tooth to prevent:

Adjacent teeth shifting
Opposing tooth over-erupting
Bone loss in jaw
Bite problems
Difficulty chewing

Replacement Options:

Dental Implant

Permanent, natural-looking replacement

Timeline: 4-6 months

Dental Bridge

Fixed restoration using adjacent teeth

Timeline: 2-3 weeks

Partial Denture

Removable replacement for one or more teeth

Timeline: 2-4 weeks

Wisdom Teeth: When to Remove

Not all wisdom teeth need removal. Extract if:

Impacted: Stuck in jawbone or gums, can't erupt properly
Crowding: Pushing other teeth, causing misalignment
Infection: Pericoronitis (gum infection around partially erupted tooth)
Decay: Hard to clean, prone to cavities
Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs forming around impacted teeth
Pain: Chronic discomfort or pressure

Best Age for Removal: Late teens to early 20s. Roots aren't fully formed, bone is less dense, healing is faster.

Cost & Insurance Coverage

Investment:

Extraction cost depends on the type of extraction (simple vs. surgical), the tooth's position (impacted wisdom teeth take more time), whether a bone graft is needed, and whether you choose sedation. You'll receive a personalized treatment plan with an exact quote before any work begins.

Insurance Coverage: Most plans cover 70-80% of extraction costs. Wisdom teeth often covered at 50-80%. We're in-network with most major plans and will maximize your benefits.

Financing Options:

• Cherry payment plans — pre-qualify in 60 seconds, no credit impact
• CareCredit® accepted
• Smile Makers Club — in-house annual plan for the uninsured
• Major credit cards & HSA accepted
• Same-day emergency care

See all flexible payment options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does extraction hurt?

No! Local anesthesia numbs the area completely. You'll feel pressure but no pain. Mild soreness for 3-7 days after is normal and manageable with OTC pain relievers.

How long does extraction take?

Simple extraction: 20-40 minutes. Surgical extraction: 45-90 minutes. Multiple teeth can be done in one visit.

When can I eat normally?

Soft foods for 3-7 days. Gradually add firmer foods as comfort allows. Most patients return to normal diet within 1-2 weeks.

Can I drive after extraction?

Yes, if only local anesthesia was used. If you choose sedation, arrange for someone to drive you home.

When can I get an implant?

Typically 3-6 months after extraction, once socket has healed and bone has regenerated. Immediate implants possible in some cases.

Serving Alpharetta & Surrounding Areas

Our tooth extraction services at 3275 North Point Pkwy, Suite #103 serve patients from Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Roswell, and beyond. View all locations.