What Is a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth may need to be removed for many reasons, but the goal of tooth extraction at The Oral Surgery Center is always the same: to protect your health and prevent future problems. Whether the tooth is damaged beyond repair, infected, impacted, or interfering with orthodontic treatment, extraction is sometimes the best and most effective way to move forward. Dr. Justin L. Drab takes a calm, careful approach to tooth extractions, making sure you understand why it is needed and how the procedure fits into your overall treatment plan. With proper preparation, gentle technique, and clear follow-up care, most patients recover quickly and are back to their routine in a matter of days. Whether your tooth is damaged beyond repair, infected, impacted, or interfering with orthodontic treatment, move forward by reaching out to our oral surgery practice in Greensboro, NC to learn if a tooth extraction is the best way forward.
How Does a Tooth Extraction Work?
While the idea of having a tooth removed can make some patients anxious, the process is often simple and done with your safety and comfort in mind. We begin with a full exam and imaging to determine the best way to approach the extraction. Most extractions are done under local anesthesia, with the option for stronger sedation if you are feeling nervous or are having multiple teeth removed. If the tooth is easy to reach, Dr. Drab will perform a simple extraction, which involves gently loosening and removing it using a specialized tool. If it is broken or trapped under the gum, he may need to perform a surgical extraction, making a small incision in the gums to access the tooth. In some cases, he may cut the tooth into small pieces to remove it with minimal disruption.
After the procedure, we will give you detailed instructions for care, including what to eat, how to clean the area, and when to resume normal activity. Most patients are encouraged to stick to soft, cool foods for the first couple of days — this includes things like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, smoothies, or scrambled eggs. As healing progresses, you can gradually return to your usual diet.
What Are the Benefits of Tooth Extractions?
Removing a problem tooth can relieve discomfort, stop the spread of infection, and help protect the long-term health of your smile. In cases where the tooth will eventually be replaced with an implant, the extraction also allows us to begin the process of preparing the site for future treatment. Some of the benefits of tooth extraction at The Oral Surgery Center in Greensboro, NC include:
- Relieves pain from infection, damage, or crowding
- Stops the spread of decay to surrounding teeth
- Creates space for orthodontics or other dental treatment
- Prepares the mouth for implants, bridges, or dentures
- Reduces the risk of bone loss and further complications
- Helps improve oral health when a tooth can no longer be saved
- Quick, safe recovery with guided aftercare and support
Tooth Extractions Reviews
My second child to have wisdom teeth removal here. So fast and efficient… I refer them to all our friends. We love Dr. Drab.
Dr Drab and his team did a phenomenal job with my wisdom tooth extraction. Everyone was very friendly and informative. I have pretty serious dental anxiety and they put all of my worries at ease. The procedure was painless and I would highly recommend this place 10/10.
10/21/25 surgery removed 4 wisdom teeth, procedure completed in about 1 hour. Very nice, helpful, attentive, caring, clean space. Quick to return call about question later after home. Was able to get surgery done sooner due to cancelation.9/10 For consult: Very clean office and waiting area. Everyone worked together like a well oiled machine. Dr. Dabb & assistant were very nice, detailed, patient, informative, helpful. Made us all feel comfortable. We will be going back for surgery. It was well worth the 2 months wait for consultation and a month and a half for surgery. Busy lobby of patients and well organized.
Today I had my wisdom tooth pulled and I tell you it was the best experience I have ever had before. I was talking and laughing with the Doctor and Nurses and the next thing I knew I was in the recovery are. Everything went so smoothly. Everyone in this office was very nice. The Doctor was very professional, polite and friendly.
Dr. Drab and his office staff are all very kind and caring. We just had 2 kids have their wisdom teeth removed and they were top notch both times.
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Total Reviews
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Average Rating
Am I A Candidate for Tooth Extractions?
If your tooth was broken or damaged from decay, Dr. Drab will make every attempt to restore it using a tooth-colored filling, dental bonding, or a custom dental crown. However, in cases of advanced tooth decay or infection, a tooth may be too compromised and will require a tooth extraction to prevent the damage from spreading and to protect the health of surrounding teeth. You could also need a wisdom teeth removal procedure if there is not enough space in your mouth, especially for third molars that typically emerge between ages 17 and 21. In older children, baby tooth extraction may be necessary if primary teeth do not fall out naturally and begin to block incoming permanent teeth. If you are preparing for orthodontic treatment such as braces or Invisalign clear aligners, a simple tooth extraction may also be recommended to create the space needed for proper alignment and long-term oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know when a tooth can no longer be saved and needs extraction?
Severe decay, fractures below the gumline, advanced infection, or loss of supporting bone may be reasons a tooth can't be saved. Our team performs a full clinical exam and imaging to determine whether restoration is possible. If extraction is the best path forward, we will discuss all options to replace a tooth after extraction and restore your smile.
How soon can I get a dental implant after tooth extraction?
Some patients are candidates for immediate dental implant placement, while others need time for the area to heal first. Factors like bone density, gum health, and infection determine the timeline for dental implants after extraction. Our team will evaluate these details and recommend the approach that supports long-term success.
What should I do if my child is scared about having their tooth extracted?
Reassurance, simple explanations, and allowing them to ask questions can ease fears. Many children feel more comfortable once they know they will be numb and supported throughout the visit. Our team will walk them through the process gently and at their pace.
Simple and Surgical Tooth Extractions
Tooth removal is never a first choice, but when a problem tooth is holding everything else back, taking it out can be the step that makes other treatments possible. Dr. Drab provides surgical and routine extractions at The Oral Surgery Center for patients across Greensboro, NC, with a focus on comfort, clarity, and planning for what comes next. If you're in pain or facing a decision about whether to keep a failing tooth, we can help you understand your options and take action with confidence.