Can This Tooth Be Saved?
See how dentists evaluate root canal treatment, extraction, and specialist referral options.
Read articleA careful evaluation first. A clear plan from there.
An extraction is never a one-size-fits-all decision. We start with a thorough exam to understand what is happening, whether the tooth can be saved, and the safest way to care for it. If the extraction is appropriate to complete in our office, we can often take care of it here. If a specialist is the better choice, we’ll explain why and help coordinate the referral.
Clinical content reviewed byDr. David Cole, DDSReviewed

Sometimes a tooth is too damaged, infected, or compromised to repair predictably. Other times, treatment may still be able to preserve it. Before recommending an extraction, we examine the tooth and the surrounding area, review the appropriate imaging, and talk through the available options with you.
If removing the tooth is the right next step, we’ll also consider its position, root shape, nearby anatomy, your health history, and any other factors that could make the procedure more involved. The goal is not simply to remove the tooth — it is to choose the setting that gives you the safest, most straightforward care.
We evaluate wisdom teeth, but they often need a specialist’s care. Wisdom teeth that are impacted — even partially — are generally referred to an oral surgeon because their position can make removal more complex. Some fully erupted wisdom teeth may be appropriate to remove in our office after an exam.
The same principle applies to any extraction with added complexity. We will not push ahead simply because a procedure can sometimes be done in a general dental office. If specialist care gives you a safer or more predictable experience, we’ll tell you directly and help arrange it.
For an in-office extraction, we numb the area thoroughly with local anesthetic and make sure you are comfortable before beginning. We do not currently offer sedation dentistry. You’ll receive clear instructions for caring for the area afterward, including what to eat, how to keep the site clean, and when to call us.
If the extracted tooth needs to be replaced, we can also discuss the appropriate timing and options once the area has been evaluated. There is no pressure to decide everything at once — we’ll help you understand the next step.
Sometimes. Same-day treatment depends on the exam, the complexity of the extraction, your health history, and the time available that day. Call us as early as you can, and we’ll begin with an evaluation and give you a clear answer.
We evaluate wisdom teeth and may remove a fully erupted tooth when the case is appropriate. Wisdom teeth that are impacted to any degree are generally better handled by an oral surgeon. If that applies to you, we’ll explain why and help coordinate the referral.
We numb the area thoroughly with local anesthetic before an in-office extraction. You may feel pressure during the procedure, but you should not feel sharp pain. We’ll check your comfort throughout and give you clear instructions for managing normal soreness afterward.
We consider the tooth’s position and roots, nearby anatomy, the condition of the surrounding area, your health history, and the overall complexity of the procedure. If specialist care is the safer or more predictable option, we’ll tell you plainly and help arrange it.
We’ll give you written aftercare instructions and explain what is normal as the area heals. If replacing the tooth would benefit your bite or long-term dental health, we can talk through options and timing once we understand your situation.
See how dentists evaluate root canal treatment, extraction, and specialist referral options.
Read articleReview practical guidance for protecting the site, managing discomfort, and recognizing warning signs.
Read articleCall for an evaluation. We’ll take a careful look, explain whether the tooth can be saved, and recommend the safest next step.
Located on Kirk Road in West Little Rock
In pain, broken tooth, or something feels wrong? Call us. We make every effort to see emergencies the same day.
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