Where Comfort Meets Care for Your Brightest Smile

Proudly Brightening Smiles in Oak Park and Lombard

Experience the Best In

Pain Free Dentistry

At Gentle Dentistry of Oak Park and Lombard, we believe that a healthy smile begins with exceptional care. Led by Dr. Sarita Woodson, our practice has been a trusted part of the community for over 30 years. With a focus on patient comfort and the latest dental technologies, we provide gentle care for all ages, making your experience as pleasant and painless as possible. Our team consists of highly qualified professionals who are dedicated to ensuring that every visit is a positive one.


We understand that dental anxiety is a real concern for many people, which is why we’ve created an atmosphere designed to calm and relax. From the moment you step into our spa-like office, you’ll feel at ease with our caring staff, soothing music, and modern amenities. Whether you need a routine check-up, advanced restorative work, or orthodontics, our goal is to provide top-notch dental care that puts your needs first.


Our Services

Comprehensive Dental Care for Every Smile

We provide a wide range of general dentistry services to address all your oral health needs, including emergency dental care for urgent situations. Our treatments are designed to offer gentle, effective care for both adults and children. Whether it's preventive care or immediate attention, we’re committed to keeping your smile healthy and pain-free. Below are the services we specialize in:


Restorative Procedures

  • Mercury free fillings
  • Crowns
  • Bridges
  • Partials
  • Dentures
  • Implants
  • Extractions
  • Root Canal Therapy


Preventative Procedures

  • Exams
  • Cleanings
  • Radiographs
  • Fluoride Treatments


Cosmetic Dentistry

  • Teeth Whitening
  • Smile Preservation & Restoration
  • Crowns
  • Implants


With our personalized approach, advanced techniques, and state-of-the-art equipment, we ensure every patient leaves with a healthy, confident smile. Whether you need preventative care, restorative treatments, or cosmetic enhancements, we’re here to meet all your dental needs.


Emergency Dentistry

Prompt Care When You Need It Most

Dental emergencies often occur unexpectedly, causing pain, discomfort, or damage that requires immediate care. At Gentle Dentistry, we understand the stress these situations can bring. That's why we provide prompt and compassionate treatment to address all your emergency dental needs. Save our contact information or give us a call whenever you need assistance—we’re here to help.


Cosmetic Dentistry

Enhance the appearance of your smile and boost your confidence with our cosmetic dentistry treatments. From teeth whitening to veneers, we create results that leave you smiling with pride.

  • Teeth Whitening

    Brighten your smile and reduce discoloration with professional teeth whitening treatments. Our safe and effective procedures are designed to give you a radiant, youthful smile that boosts your confidence.

  • Smile Preservation & Restoration

    Combining restorative dentistry with aesthetic treatments, we preserve and restore your smile's health and appearance. Whether you need repairs or enhancements, we work to maintain a natural-looking smile that lasts.

  • Crowns

    Crowns provide a cosmetic solution for damaged or discolored teeth, restoring their strength and appearance. Custom-designed to match your natural tooth color, crowns are ideal for improving both functionality and aesthetics.

  • Veneers

    Veneers are thin, custom-made shells placed over the front of your teeth to cover imperfections such as chips, stains, or misalignment. They provide a flawless, symmetrical smile with results that look completely natural.

  • Implants

    Dental implants are a long-lasting solution for missing teeth, offering both functional and cosmetic benefits. They replace missing teeth with titanium posts that bond to the jawbone, supporting a natural-looking crown that blends seamlessly with your smile.

Restorative Procedures

When your teeth are damaged or decayed, restorative dentistry helps restore their function and appearance. We use advanced techniques and high-quality materials to give you long-lasting results.

  • Mercury-Free Fillings

    If you have cavities, we can restore your teeth with mercury-free fillings that blend seamlessly with your natural tooth color. These fillings are durable, safe, and free from harmful materials, providing you with a smile that looks and feels natural.

  • Crowns

    A crown is a cap that fits over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. If you have a weak, cracked, or severely decayed tooth, a crown can protect it from further damage and restore its function.

  • Bridges

    If you're missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge can fill the gap, helping you speak and eat more comfortably. Bridges are custom-designed to match the appearance of your natural teeth.

  • Partials and Dentures

    For patients missing multiple teeth, partial dentures can restore both function and aesthetics. Full dentures are a solution for those missing all their teeth. Both options are designed for comfort and provide a natural-looking smile.

  • Implants

    Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. The implant is placed into the jawbone, creating a sturdy foundation for a replacement tooth that functions and looks just like your natural teeth.

Preventative Procedures

Prevention is key to maintaining good oral health and avoiding more costly treatments in the future. Our preventive services include:

  • Exams

    Regular dental exams are essential for catching issues early, before they become serious. During an exam, we check for cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.

  • Cleanings

    Even with the best at-home care, regular cleanings are necessary to remove plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

  • Radiographs (X-rays)

    X-rays allow us to detect problems that are not visible to the naked eye, such as cavities between teeth, infections, or bone loss.

  • Fluoride Treatments

    Fluoride strengthens the enamel of your teeth, making them more resistant to decay. These treatments are especially beneficial for children and patients at higher risk for cavities.

Extractions and Root Canal Therapy

Sometimes, a tooth can’t be saved and needs to be extracted. We perform extractions in a way that minimizes discomfort and helps you heal quickly. If you have a severely infected tooth, root canal therapy may be needed to save it. This procedure removes infected tissue from inside the tooth, then seals it, so it can function normally without pain or infection.


Real Client Testimonials


At Gentle Dentistry of Oak Park, our patients’ smiles say it all! From routine cleanings to restorative treatments, we’re proud to provide care that leaves our patients feeling confident and comfortable. Read what others have to say about their experiences with our compassionate team or leave us a review using the link below.


Gentle Dentistry By Dr. Sarita Woodson, DDS

I was very excited when I arrived. The staff were really great, and they were really nice. I was talked through the whitening process and she made me feel relaxed and comfortable! The dentist was great as well….I definitely recommend this office and doctor Woodson, thank you and your staff!

- MS

Gentle Dentistry By Dr. Sarita Woodson, DDS

The staff, dental crew and Dr. Woodson are quite nice and make the visit as comfortable as possible. There isn't a sense of "rush or hurry" and conversations flow well. Exceptional time is taken to explain everything and questions are answered well. Don't let this gem go if you need a dental review and fix.

- Anonymous

Gentle Dentistry By Dr. Sarita Woodson, DDS

Went in on a groupon special. I'm always wary of offices that offer this. Usually there's a reason they need to attract more business. Well, wrong in this case. This dentist is great! Well staffed office. Hygienist was thorough and cleaning was pain free. Dr Woodson was knowledgeable and made recommendations without being pushy. As well as no waiting....everybody present, timely and efficient. Superb experience!!

- Ann H.

Our Recent Blogs

Veneers vs. Crowns: Which Option Is Best for You?

March 5, 2025
Weighing Your Cosmetic and Restorative Options When it comes to enhancing your smile, veneers and crowns are two of the most popular dental treatments available. Each option offers unique benefits, addressing both cosmetic and structural dental issues. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into what veneers and crowns are, how they differ, and which treatment might be best suited for your needs. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle aesthetic boost or require significant restorative work, understanding these options is crucial for making an informed decision. For more on veneers, visit the American Dental Association’s Veneers Resource , and for crowns, see Colgate’s Dental Crowns Overview .

Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces: Which Is Right for You?

February 26, 2025
Which Is Right for You? Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces Choosing the right orthodontic treatment can be a daunting task, especially when faced with the decision between Invisalign and traditional braces. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the key differences, benefits, and potential drawbacks of each option to help you make an informed decision about which treatment is best suited to your needs. Whether you're an adult seeking a discreet solution or a teen looking for effective alignment, understanding these options is crucial for achieving a healthy, confident smile. We’ll cover everything from aesthetics and comfort to treatment duration, maintenance, cost, and candidacy. For further reading on Invisalign, visit the American Association of Orthodontists’ Invisalign Overview and for details on braces, check out Colgate’s Braces Information .
What to Do in a Dental Emergency: A Quick Guide

What to Do in a Dental Emergency: A Quick Guide

February 19, 2025
Introduction Understanding Dental Emergencies Dental emergencies can strike unexpectedly, leaving you in pain and uncertain about what steps to take next. In this guide, we break down the essentials of handling a dental emergency with clear, actionable advice. Whether you’re dealing with a knocked-out tooth, severe toothache, or a chipped or broken tooth, being prepared can make all the difference. We’ll cover what qualifies as a dental emergency, the immediate steps to take, and when professional help is necessary.
Show More

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why Choose Gentle Dentistry for My Dental Care?

    At Gentle Dentistry, we pride ourselves on being a general dentist practice that focuses on your overall comfort and health. As a dedicated general dentist, Dr. Sarita Woodson and our team offer personalized, compassionate care tailored to meet your unique dental needs. We take a comprehensive approach to dentistry, providing everything from preventive care to restorative treatments, all under the expertise of a skilled general dentist. Our offices are equipped with the latest technology to ensure that your experience is as efficient and comfortable as possible. Whether you're looking for a routine exam or more advanced care, choosing our practice means you’ll be in the hands of a trusted general dentist committed to your long-term oral health.

  • How Often Should I Visit the Dentist?

    For optimal oral health, it’s recommended to visit your dentist every six months for a routine exam and cleaning. If you have specific oral health concerns, we will recommend more frequent visits.

  • Do You Offer Treatments for Children?

    Yes! We provide comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages, including pediatric dentistry. Our team is experienced in making children feel comfortable during their visit.

  • Are Your Services Covered by Insurance?

    We accept a variety of dental insurance plans and will work with you to maximize your benefits. We also offer flexible payment options for uninsured patients.

  • What Is the Best Way to Contact You?

    You can reach our Oak Park office at (708) 660-9113 or our Lombard office at (630) 317-7429. Alternatively, feel free to email us at saritwoods@aol.com or use the contact form below.

Contact Us

Get in Touch Today

We’d love to hear from you! Whether you want to schedule an appointment or ask questions, our friendly team is ready to assist.

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General Dentist in Oak Park, IL