At San Marcos Dental Center, we know the idea of a tooth extraction can feel overwhelming—but we’re here to make it simple, smooth, and stress-free. With advanced techniques and years of experience, our compassionate team is committed to providing a painless, positive experience from start to finish.
We always explore every possible alternative before recommending extraction. However, there are times when removing a tooth is the healthiest choice. You may need a tooth extraction if you’re dealing with:
Extensive tooth decay
Severe tooth damage or trauma
Untreatable infections
Overcrowded or impacted wisdom teeth
Our team will thoroughly evaluate your situation, explain your options clearly, and ensure you’re completely informed and comfortable with your treatment plan.
When the affected tooth is fully visible and easy to access, we use gentle techniques and local anesthesia to safely loosen and remove the tooth.
For teeth that are impacted, broken beneath the gumline, or haven't fully erupted, we perform surgical extractions. These are handled with extra precision and care to protect surrounding tissues and minimize discomfort.
Before the procedure, we’ll take digital X-rays to carefully evaluate the tooth’s position and surrounding bone. We’ll walk you through each step of the process and answer all your questions. Our goal is to ensure you feel calm, prepared, and confident.
On the day of your procedure:
Wear loose, comfortable clothing
Follow any pre-procedure instructions provided
You’ll be treated in a relaxing environment with caring professionals by your side
After your extraction, mild swelling or tenderness is normal. To support healing:
Use gauze as directed to manage bleeding
Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
Take prescribed or over-the-counter medication for pain relief
Avoid straws, smoking, and vigorous rinsing for the first 24 hours
Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal for the first couple of days. Gently rinse with warm saltwater starting the next day to keep the area clean.
If you notice ongoing discomfort, swelling, or anything unusual (like a bad taste or smell), don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
After your tooth extraction, it’s common to feel mild soreness or swelling. Most patients find that over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen work well to manage any discomfort. Our team will send you home with fresh gauze and detailed instructions to help you recover comfortably. Remember to replace the gauze as needed to control bleeding and apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling.
For the first 24 hours:
Avoid spitting, using straws, or smoking—these can dislodge the healing clot and cause dry socket
Keep the extraction site clean with gentle rinses (saltwater is ideal) starting the day after your procedure
Brush carefully, steering clear of the extraction site
Stick to soft, nourishing foods like mashed potatoes, smoothies, soup, or yogurt. Proper nutrition and hydration will help speed up healing and keep you feeling your best.
If you experience lingering pain, swelling, or signs of infection—such as a bad taste or unusual discharge—please call San Marcos Dental Center right away. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Whether you’re due for a routine cleaning or need restorative treatment, the team at San Marcos Dental Center is here for you. We provide comprehensive dental care to help you smile with confidence.
Call us today at (760) 734-4311 to schedule your appointment.
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