Tooth Extractions in Wilmington, NC

Comfortable Tooth Extraction Treatment at Mast Dental

Gentle Tooth Extractions at Mast Dental

Preserving your natural teeth is always our priority at Mast Dental. We exhaust every possible option before recommending extraction because we understand that losing even a single tooth can significantly impact your oral health, bite function, and appearance.

That said, there are situations where extracting a tooth is the right call and in those cases, the most important thing is that it's done carefully, with clear communication and your comfort front and center. Dr. Mast will thoroughly examine your tooth, review your X-rays, and walk you through exactly what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

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When is an Extraction Necessary

Dr. Mast recommends extraction only when it is genuinely the best course of action for your long-term oral health. Common reasons a tooth may need to be removed include:

Severe decay that has destroyed too much tooth structure to be restored
Advanced gum disease that has compromised the bone supporting the tooth
Infection or abscess that cannot be resolved with root canal treatment or antibiotics
A fractured tooth or root that cannot be repaired
Impacted teeth, most commonly wisdom teeth, that are unable to erupt properly
Malpositioned or overcrowded teeth requiring removal for orthodontic correction
Baby teeth that haven't fallen out naturally and are blocking permanent teeth

If you're experiencing pain, swelling, or have been told by another provider that a tooth needs to come out, call us at (910) 397-9277 and we'll evaluate your situation promptly.

Don't Forget. Missing Teeth Need to Be Replaced

If you're having a permanent tooth removed, it's important to discuss tooth replacement options with Dr. Mast. A gap left by a missing tooth causes surrounding teeth to shift over time, affects your bite, and can lead to bone loss in the jaw. The sooner a replacement plan is in place, the better your long-term outcome.

Replacement options Dr. Mast can discuss with you include dental implants, dental bridges, and partial dentures. We'll help you understand the pros, cons, and costs of each option so you can make the best decision for your situation.

What Happens During a Tooth Extraction at Mast Dental

We know the idea of an extraction can feel intimidating. Here's exactly what the process looks like, so you can come in feeling informed and at ease.

Examination and X-Rays

Anesthesia

The Extraction

Aftercare Instructions

01

Examination and X-Rays

Before anything else, Dr. Mast will take X-rays to assess the shape, position, and root structure of the tooth, as well as the surrounding bone. This gives him a complete picture of what's involved and helps him plan the safest, most efficient approach.

02

Anesthesia

The area around the tooth will be fully numbed with local anesthesia before the procedure begins. You should feel pressure during the extraction but no pain. If you have dental anxiety, talk to us ahead of time — we have options to help you feel more comfortable.

03

The Extraction

For a simple extraction, Dr. Mast will gently loosen the tooth and remove it. For a more complex case — such as an impacted tooth or a broken tooth with remaining root structure — a surgical approach may be required. If the complexity of your case warrants a referral to an oral surgeon, Dr. Mast will coordinate that referral and remain involved in your overall care.

04

Aftercare Instructions

Before you leave, we'll provide detailed written and verbal aftercare instructions covering everything you need to know about managing discomfort, protecting the extraction site, and what to watch for during healing.

What to Expect After Your Extraction

Some degree of soreness and swelling following an extraction is completely normal. Most patients find that discomfort peaks within the first 24 to 48 hours and then gradually subsides over the following days. Here's how to support a smooth recovery:

Take any prescribed or recommended pain medication as directed
Apply an ice pack to the outside of your face in 15-minute intervals during the first 24 hours to manage swelling
Bite gently on the gauze placed over the extraction site to help control bleeding
Avoid smoking, drinking through a straw, or vigorous rinsing for at least 48 hours — these actions can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing
Stick to soft foods for the first few days and avoid chewing on the extraction side
Gently rinse with warm salt water starting 24 hours after the procedure

Discomfort should lessen noticeably within three days and resolve fully within one to two weeks. If you experience prolonged or worsening pain, significant swelling, persistent bleeding, or fever after your extraction, call our office immediately at (910) 397-9277.

Tooth Extractions Near You in Wilmington, NC

Mast Dental is located at 818-A Pine Grove Drive in Wilmington, NC, serving patients throughout Wilmington, Ogden, Porters Neck, Masonboro, Monkey Junction, and surrounding communities. We offer early morning appointments starting at 7:30 AM Monday through Friday and do our best to accommodate urgent dental needs promptly.

Call (910) 397-9277 or request an appointment online, we'll get you in and take care of you.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extractions

The procedure itself should not be painful. The area is thoroughly numbed with local anesthesia before Dr. Mast begins, so you'll feel pressure and movement but no pain during the extraction. Some soreness after the anesthesia wears off is normal and manageable with over-the-counter or prescribed pain medication. If you're nervous about the procedure, let us know in advance — we'll do everything we can to make you comfortable.

Dry socket occurs when the blood clot that forms at the extraction site becomes dislodged or dissolves before the wound has healed, exposing the underlying bone and nerves. It is the most common complication following an extraction and causes significant pain. To avoid it, do not smoke, drink through a straw, or rinse vigorously for at least 48 hours after the procedure. Follow all aftercare instructions carefully. If you develop dry socket, call us — it is very treatable.