CarolinasDentist Blog

Simple Tooth Extraction vs. Surgical

A white tooth next to a dental mirror against a blue background

If you’ve recently been informed that you need to have a tooth extracted, you may be full of questions and concerns! Some possible reasons to have a tooth extracted include severe decay, overcrowding, or impacted wisdom teeth. Let’s take a closer look at the differences between simple tooth extractions vs. surgical tooth extractions.

Simple Tooth Extraction

A simple tooth extraction is a less complicated type of tooth extraction, usually performed when the tooth can be easily accessed by your dentist. In this procedure, your dentist will apply a local anesthetic to numb the surrounding area and then gently remove the affected tooth from its socket using special extraction tools. The recovery time for a simple tooth extraction is relatively short. Our team will provide aftercare guidelines to help you avoid dry socket and get you back on your feet as quickly as possible.

Surgical Tooth Extraction

In some cases, the tooth or teeth requiring extraction won’t be as easy for your dentist to reach. This can happen when the tooth is severely broken or hasn’t emerged from the gumline yet, like impacted wisdom teeth. These situations can require surgical tooth extraction. Depending on the tooth’s position and condition, you may be referred to an oral surgeon.

This minor operation requires a small incision in the gum tissue surrounding the tooth. The tooth may be removed whole or in pieces. Because this is a more invasive procedure, stronger anesthesia or sedation options are offered. Additionally, it’s very important to take sufficient time to rest so the extraction site can properly heal without infection or excessive discomfort.

Gentle Tooth Extractions at CarolinasDentist

At CarolinasDentist, we typically see a tooth extraction as the last resort when we have exhausted all other treatment options or when we have determined it as the best course of action for your particular situation. If extraction is necessary, our team will make sure that you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. We will also thoroughly explain aftercare guidelines and, if applicable, tooth replacement options with you. From start to finish, you’ll be in good hands at CarolinasDentist—contact us today!

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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