Tooth Extractions in Pine Bluff

If a crown, filling or other treatment cannot fix your damaged or decayed tooth, then it is time for a full tooth extraction.  A tooth extraction is a complete removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. Other tooth extractions can be for wisdom teeth removal, baby teeth, extra teeth that are blocking teeth from coming in, infected teeth,  or preparation for orthodontic treatment. 

it is important to know the removal of a single tooth could possibly lead to problems related to chewing ability, the jaw joint, or teeth shifting, which can have a major impact on your overall dental health.

Contact Dr. Clark today for an evaluation to determine if a tooth extraction is the appropriate treatment for you.
Dentures— Boy at the Dental in Pine Bluff, AR

Simple Extraction

A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that can be seen in the mouth. The dentist will loosen the tooth with an instrument called an elevator, then pull the tooth out with an instrument called forceps. 

Surgical Extraction

A surgical extraction procedure is performed when a tooth is below the gum-line and cannot be seen. The dentist will make a small incision in your gum, then may remove some bone or cut the tooth in half to remove it. Typically, surgical extractions are done by oral surgeons, but general dentists can also perform the procedure as well.

Simple Extraction

A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that can be seen in the mouth. The dentist will loosen the tooth with an instrument called an elevator, then pull the tooth out with an instrument called forceps. 

Surgical Extraction

A surgical extraction procedure is performed when a tooth is below the gum-line and cannot be seen. The dentist will make a small incision in your gum, then may remove some bone or cut the tooth in half to remove it. Typically, surgical extractions are done by oral surgeons, but general dentists can also perform the procedure as well.

After the Extraction Process

After the extraction procedure has been completed, you will form a blood clot to stop the bleeding by biting down on gauze for approximately an hour or however long necessary to stop the bleeding.

After the bleeding stops, it is important to not disrupt the blood clot. Avoid rinsing, sucking on straws, drinking alcohol, smoking, or brushing teeth around the extracted tooth for up to 3 days. Avoid any exercise for the next 24-48 hours.

After the procedure, pain and swelling is expected. Use an ice pack to keep the swelling to a minimum. Swelling will usually subside after 2-3 days. Take pain medication as prescribed by Dr. Clark. If swelling and pain continues, contact our office immediately.

Begin routine dental hygiene 24 hours after the procedure including brushing and flossing at least once a day. This can help the healing process while keeping your mouth healthy.

Drink plenty of fluids and eat soft foods on the day of the extraction. You can resume normal eating as soon as your comfort level allows.

If you're still experiencing bleeding, continued swelling, or severe pain after the 72 hour period, contact us immediately.