Tooth Extractions in Texarkana & Paris TX

As oral surgeons, saving your tooth is always our number one goal, but sometimes tooth extractions are unavoidable.  Thankfully, cutting-edge technology, our surgical techniques, and anesthesia have come a long way over the years, empowering us to offer safe, comfortable and quick tooth extractions.

Why would I need a tooth extraction?

• Severe tooth decay
• Periodontal disease
• Tooth fractures
• Impacted teeth
• Orthodontic preparation needs

Before Surgery

Prior to extraction, our expert doctors discuss with you replacement options and the logistics of bone grafting. A grafting procedure at the time of your extraction helps prevent jawbone loss and provides favorable conditions for an implant down the road.

Having a Tooth Extracted

The procedure typically takes less than an hour, and the results are very safe and predictable.

Before pulling your tooth, your Oral Surgeon administers local anesthetic to numb the area where the tooth will be removed, so you do not feel any pain.  A general anesthetic is also an option for those who request it. Depending on the particulars of your case, we sometimes place a few stitches – usually self-dissolving – to close up the gum edges over the extraction site.

Recovery and Home Care

We provide specific home care instructions prior to surgery, but in general, the most important things to know about recovery from a tooth extraction include:

Blood Clots

Following surgery, it is very important to form a strong blood clot for the healing process, by biting on a gauze pad for about an hour after the procedure.

Straws and Smoking

For two days following your surgery, do not use straws or tobacco products, as these will dislodge the clot, which results in a dry socket. Dry sockets are painful and may require additional treatment, slowing recovery time.

Pain

As the anesthesia wears off, you may experience soreness for a few days. However, patients are typically able to manage any pain with over-the-counter pain medications, such as Ibuprofen, but a pain reliever may be prescribed.