Stop dental problems from getting worse with timely tooth extractions—removing damaged or problematic teeth to protect your overall oral health and prevent more serious complications.
Hearing that you need a tooth pulled can bring up a lot of questions. Will it hurt? How long will it take? What happens after? The good news is that tooth extractions are one of the most common procedures in dentistry, and with the right team, the process is straightforward and comfortable. Our goal is to make sure you feel prepared and at ease from the moment you walk in.
We offer tooth extractions right here in Durham for patients who need a simple, caring solution to a problem tooth. Whether you’re dealing with a damaged tooth, crowding, or an infection that has not responded to other treatment, our restorative dentistry approach focuses on finding the most conservative path forward, and recommending an extraction only when it’s truly the best option for your health. If you’ve already had a tooth removed and are considering what comes next, learn about wisdom tooth removal in Durham.
Not every troubled tooth needs to come out. We always look for ways to preserve your natural smile first. That said, there are situations where removing a tooth is the clearest path to protecting your overall oral health.
Some of the most frequent reasons we recommend a tooth extraction include severe decay that has damaged too much of the tooth’s structure, a cracked or broken tooth that can’t be repaired, advanced gum disease that has loosened a tooth, or crowding that is preventing other teeth from aligning properly. Impacted wisdom teeth, which become stuck beneath the gum line and cause pain or pressure, are another common reason patients come to us for an extraction.
The key is context. Every patient’s situation is different, and we use our cone beam imaging technology to get a complete picture of what’s happening beneath the surface before making any recommendations.
A tooth extraction may sound intimidating, but the process is designed to be as smooth and pain-free as possible. Before anything begins, we numb the area completely so you don’t feel any pain during the procedure, only some pressure as the tooth is loosened and removed.
There are two main types of extractions. A simple extraction involves a tooth that has fully erupted from the gum line and can be removed with dental instruments in a straightforward process. A surgical extraction is used when a tooth is impacted, broken below the gum line, or otherwise more complex to remove. In these cases, a small incision is made to access the tooth.
According to a 2023 review published in StatPearls via the National Center for Biotechnology Information, dental extractions rely on the progressive expansion of the bony socket surrounding a tooth, which creates enough mobility to allow safe removal (Gadhia & Pepper, 2023). We walk you through exactly what type of extraction you need and what that process looks like before your appointment, so there are no surprises.
Recovery after an extraction is usually quick and manageable when you follow the right steps. In the days following your procedure, you can expect some mild soreness and swelling, which typically settles down within a few days.
Here are a few general guidelines to support healing after your extraction:
Following these steps helps protect the socket and keeps your healing on track. We always provide you with clear, specific aftercare instructions before you leave our office.
Once a tooth has been removed, it’s worth thinking about what comes next. A gap in your smile doesn’t just affect appearance. Over time, neighboring teeth can shift into the empty space, and bone loss can occur in the jaw where the tooth root used to be.
For many patients, dental implants are an excellent option for replacing a missing tooth. A single implant mimics the function and appearance of a natural tooth, anchoring directly into the jawbone to provide a stable, long-term solution. We’re happy to discuss your replacement options at the time of your extraction or at a follow-up visit, so you can make the decision that’s right for you.
Dr. Will Church brings a patient-first philosophy to every procedure at our Durham practice. His training at UNC and his commitment to advanced dental technology, including our cone beam imaging system, means your care is grounded in both precision and genuine attention to your comfort. We take time to listen to your concerns, explain your options clearly, and make sure you feel confident in every step of your care.
We also offer flexible financing options through Cherry, Sunbit, and Proceed to help make your dental care accessible regardless of your budget. Whether you need a straightforward extraction or have questions about what comes next for your smile, our team is here to help. Contact our office to schedule your appointment today.
Experience the difference that advanced technology and compassionate care can make. At Church Dentistry, we’re committed to providing Durham residents with exceptional dental care in a comfortable, modern environment. Whether you need a routine cleaning, cosmetic enhancement, or complex restorative work, our team is here to help you achieve optimal oral health and the confident smile you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover why patients throughout Durham trust us with their smiles.
When you visit Church Family Dentistry, you’re in the hands of a dentist who approaches every appointment with genuine curiosity about your goals — not just your teeth. Dr. Will Church combines advanced training from UNC with a deep passion for cutting-edge dental technology, creating an environment where patients feel heard, valued, and confident in every decision they make about their care.
Quality dental care should be accessible to everyone. At Church Family Dentistry, we work hard to make treatment fit your budget — whether you have insurance, prefer financing, or simply want flexible payment solutions.
While we are proudly out-of-network, we file PPO benefits on your behalf to maximize your savings. We accept and process most major dental insurance plans — Medicaid, Tricare, and VA are the only exceptions.
We offer multiple financing options so care stays within reach — from simple out-of-pocket costs to larger treatment investments. Apply in minutes and get a decision quickly.
We happily accept Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts. Use your pre-tax dollars for any dental procedure — from routine cleanings to cosmetic treatment and implants.
Questions about your coverage? Call us at (919) 220-6553 — we’re happy to verify your benefits before your appointment.
At Church Family Dentistry, every patient’s experience matters deeply to us. Hear firsthand why Durham families trust Dr. Church with their smiles.
Church Family Dentistry is conveniently located in Durham, NC — right next to Duke Regional Hospital, with comfortable operatories overlooking beautifully wooded surroundings.
Address
2711 N Duke St #B
Durham, NC 27704
Phone
(919) 220-6553
Schedule Online
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| Monday | 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
Taking the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile is simple. Call our Durham office or request an appointment online — we’re here to answer your questions and create a personalized plan that fits your life.
Whether you’re a new patient or returning for care, Dr. Church and his team will take time to truly understand your goals before recommending any treatment.
The content on this website has been reviewed by Dr. Will Church for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Treatment outcomes vary based on individual needs and clinical factors. Contact Church Family Dentistry at (919) 220-6553 for personalized care or dental emergencies.
