Tooth Extractions in Summerville, SC
Having a tooth removed is one of the more straightforward procedures in dentistry, and in many cases, it is the right call for protecting your overall oral health. When a tooth is too damaged, infected, or crowded to be saved, extraction removes the source of the problem and opens the door to lasting solutions. The goal is always to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible, but when preservation is no longer in your best interest, we prioritize what keeps your mouth healthy long-term.
At Old Trolley Dental Associates, Dr. Scott Kibler and Dr. Michael Skovira perform tooth extractions as part of a broad range of general dentistry services in Summerville, SC. As a private, two-doctor practice, we handle most extraction cases in-house, which means fewer referrals, fewer offices to navigate, and a care team that already knows you. Our approach is straightforward and patient-centered from start to finish.
When a Tooth Extraction May Be Necessary
Not every damaged or painful tooth requires removal, but there are situations where extraction is the most practical path forward. Severe decay, advanced infection, a fractured tooth below the gumline, or significant damage from trauma can each leave a tooth beyond the point where restoration is viable. In these cases, removing the tooth promptly helps prevent the spread of infection and protects the surrounding teeth and bone.
Extraction is also commonly needed when preparing for orthodontic treatment, when teeth are overcrowded, or when a failed root canal has left a tooth in poor condition. According to a 2025 CDC data brief on emergency department visits for tooth disorders, dental issues account for nearly two million ED visits annually in the United States — many of which involve infections or decay that could have been addressed sooner with appropriate dental care. Catching these problems early and treating them in a dental office leads to significantly better outcomes than waiting until pain becomes severe.
Simple Versus Surgical Extractions
Not all extractions are the same, and the type of procedure depends on the tooth’s position and condition. A simple extraction is performed on a tooth visible above the gumline. We loosen the tooth using a dental elevator, then remove it with forceps. The procedure is quick, and patients are typically comfortable throughout.
A surgical extraction is required when a tooth is impacted, broken off at the gumline, or has not fully erupted. This involves a small incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth. Patients who feel anxious about either type of procedure may benefit from our sedation dentistry options. Oral sedation is available and can make a significant difference in comfort for patients who feel nervous about dental work.
What to Expect on the Day of Your Extraction
Before we begin, the area around the tooth is thoroughly numbed with local anesthesia. You will feel pressure during the procedure but should not feel pain. If at any point you are uncomfortable, let us know, and we will pause to address it. Most simple extractions are completed in just a few minutes once anesthesia has taken effect.
Following the procedure, we place gauze over the socket to support clot formation and give you clear post-operative instructions. It is important to follow these guidelines closely in the days after the extraction to protect the healing site and reduce the risk of complications. Our team is available to answer questions during recovery.
Replacing the Extracted Tooth
Removing a tooth is only part of the process. Unless the extraction involves a wisdom tooth or a tooth being removed for orthodontic purposes, we strongly recommend planning for replacement. A gap left by a missing tooth can cause neighboring teeth to shift over time, affect your bite, and contribute to bone loss in the jaw.
Replacement options include dental implants, which are the gold standard for long-term tooth replacement, as well as dental crowns supported by bridges when multiple teeth are involved. For patients who need multiple teeth replaced, dentures and partials are also available. We discuss replacement options at your extraction appointment so you have a complete picture of what comes next before you leave.
We Handle It Here, Start to Finish, at Old Trolley Dental Associates
Most practices refer surgical extractions out. At Old Trolley, Dr. Skovira completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency at MUSC with extensive training in oral surgery, which means impacted teeth, fractured roots, and complex cases stay in-house rather than getting sent to an unfamiliar specialist. Dr. Kibler has been practicing in Summerville since 2006 and brings membership in the Seattle Study Club and the Academy of General Dentistry to every patient interaction. You also leave your extraction appointment with a clear plan for what comes next, whether that is an implant, a bridge, or simply time to heal.
We accept most major PPO insurance plans and offer financing through Cherry and CareCredit to help make care accessible when it matters most. If you are dealing with tooth pain, a damaged tooth, or have been told an extraction may be necessary, do not wait for the problem to get worse. Contact our team to schedule your appointment at Old Trolley Dental Associates in Summerville, SC.