EXTRACTIONS

Tooth Extractions in Fort Smith, AR

While we will do everything we can to save your natural tooth, sometimes tooth extraction is the best way to preserve your dental health.

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Gentle Tooth Extraction in Fort Smith

Impacted wisdom teeth aren't the only reason people need tooth extraction. Tooth damage from trauma, decay, and infections can all lead to a tooth being beyond repair. The thought of tooth extraction can cause anxiety, which is why our staff at Winborn Family Dentistry is passionate about helping patients through the process by using gentle techniques, plenty of numbing, and even sedation when needed. You shouldn't have to worry about your dental procedure, and we make that our priority!

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“I had a great experience at this dental office. All of the staff could not have been nicer and made me feel comfortable. Paul did an excellent job and I felt no pain on the procedure. I will have the rest of my dental work done there as well. Thank You"

James E.

How do I know if my tooth needs removed?

The only way to determine if you need a tooth extraction or if your tooth can be repaired is by setting up an appointment with your local Fort Smith dentist, Dr. Winborn. Our dental office might recommend tooth extraction if:


  • Your tooth has such extensive decay that it cannot be repaired with a filling or crown
  • There is a crack or fracture and has compromised the tooth, especially below the gums
  • Gum disease has caused the tooth to become loose
  • The patient has a compromised immune system and could put their health at risk
  • There is no space for the tooth in the jaw, such as wisdom teeth
  • A dental abscess in the root of the tooth cannot be treated with a root canal

The Tooth Extraction Process

Consultation

At your tooth extraction consultation, Dr. Wilborn will make sure that there is no way to save your tooth before recommending we extract it. This might include x-rays and advanced imaging.

Local Anesthetic

At the start of the procedure, we will administer local anesthetic. If you've elected to use sedation, we will also administer laughing gas so that you can be comfortable throughout the procedure.

Gentle Removal

Dr. Winborn will gently loosen the tooth so that it can be carefully removed. Most of the time, this is all that is needed to extract the tooth. If a bone is trapping the tooth, an incision will be made to remove the tooth. In some cases, it is necessary to break the tooth into smaller pieces for easier removal. No matter what route we take, you won't feel and thing and the healing process will be similar.

Tooth Socket Preservation

If you plan on using a dental implant later, we will preserve your bone density where the tooth is being removed by placing bone grafting material in the socket.

Closing Steps

To finish the procedure, Dr. Winborn will suture the site closed if needed. You'll then be asked to bite down gently on gauze for about 30 minutes. This will slow the bleeding and encourage blood clots to form in the socket. This will help protect the bone during healing!

How long does it take a tooth extraction to heal?

While it depends on your body's healing process, most patients can return to normal activities within a few days and will be completely healed in a few weeks. You will receive a full explanation of steps to take during your healing process, but here are a few guidelines:


  • Take over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications, if needed, to manage your discomfort
  • Reduce swelling by applying a cold compress to your face near the jaw every 20 minutes for the first 24 hours
  • Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for the first two days after the tooth extraction
  • Eat soft foods to avoid aggravating the extraction site and do not drink with a straw because it could dislodge the blood clot
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