Having a tooth removed doesn't have to be a stressful experience when you have a trusted dental team you can rely on. Your comfort is our priority at Camas Dentistry. Dr. Demian and his team go above and beyond to ensure our patients have a stress-free experience, especially during a tooth extraction.
Knowing what to expect also makes the procedure less stressful. So today, we will walk you through the process step by step so you understand precisely what to expect during your tooth extraction procedure.
Step #1 The Surgical Process
After we ensure your comfort with cozy blankets, pillows, and headphones, the surgical process starts with Dr. Demian numbing the surgical site with dental anesthetics. We also offer dental sedation with nitrous oxide or medication taken an hour before your procedure to help you relax and feel at ease during your tooth extraction.
Once he's sure you're completely numb, Dr. Demian expertly removes the tooth. Most patients report that they feel light pressure during surgery. Afterward, we'll control the bleeding by having you bite down on gauze until it stops.
We'll send you home with prescription medication to manage the pain and specific instructions to follow to ensure you have a smooth recovery.
Step #2 Immediately After Surgery
Following your surgery, you'll want to get plenty of rest, eat soft foods at room temperature, and manage your pain either with over-the-counter or prescription medication.
It's important to avoid activities like smoking or drinking through a straw that could dislodge your blood clot and prolong the healing process. Also, avoid vigorous activity or exercise for the first 72 hours after surgery.
Here are some suggestions for soft food items for the first few days after a tooth extraction:
- Yogurt
- Applesauce
- Smoothies
- Scrambled eggs
- Oatmeal
Avoid eating things like nuts or seeds as well as rice. Food that does not dissolve well in your own spit can find its way into the missing tooth hole and cause an infection or dry socket! Easily dissolved food works best to avoid pain.
Do not underestimate the power of a cold ice pack on the side of your face after an extraction. Cold ice can really help with the pain or discomfort you feel at the spot you recently had a tooth pulled.
If you have questions about tooth extraction in Camas, WA, or concerns about the recovery process, don't hesitate to contact your team at Camas Dentistry at (360) 828-5502.