Tooth Extractions in
Snoqualmie

Tooth extraction is the process of removing a tooth from the mouth. Some of the reasons a tooth might need to be removed could be that it is injured or damaged beyond saving or that it is causing problems for other teeth. During a tooth extraction, we can use methods of sedation to keep the patient comfortable and relaxed during the process. The process generally features minimal pain and discomfort. It usually takes a few days to recover from a tooth extraction. Once healing is complete, we can consider any tooth-replacement options if needed.

The main goal immediately following a tooth extraction is to control any bleeding. The patient must bite down on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes to form a blood clot in the area. For the next 24 hours, they must be very careful not to disturb the blood clot in any way. Swelling is a concern after a tooth extraction. Luckily, this can be managed using ice packs. Once the swelling goes down, the patient can apply a warm compress to the area for comfort. The patient will be able to chew food and eat normally after the area has healed entirely, but they might want to stick to soft foods only during the recovery process.

Why would someone need a tooth extraction?

Patients receive teeth extractions when teeth are disrupting the growth or well-being of their other teeth. We might also provide a tooth extraction for a patient who has severely injured or damaged a tooth, and the structure cannot be properly saved.

Is a tooth extraction painful?

A patient should not experience any significant pain or discomfort during a tooth extraction. We can use methods of sedation to keep patients comfortable when extracting teeth. Our dental sedation options include laughing gas and oral sedation. Although a patient will usually not feel any pain, it is common to experience a sensation of pressure in the immediate area as the tooth is being pulled.

What happens immediately following a tooth extraction?

Once the tooth is pulled, our main priority will be to manage any bleeding that follows. We will ask you to bite down on a gauze pad for roughly 30 to 45 minutes. This will allow a blood clot to form in the area. You must then be careful not to disturb the blood clot for the next 24 hours. This means that you should avoid smoking, consuming drugs and alcohol, using a straw or participating in intense exercise during this time.

How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?

A patient can expect that it will take them a few days to recover from a tooth extraction. During this time, they can help reduce swelling by applying ice packs to the nearest cheek for up to 20 minutes at a time. Once the swelling has subsided, a warm compress can be applied to the same area for comfort. Patients will want to avoid tough and chewy foods during this time.