Tooth extraction is a routine dental procedure, but one needs to take proper care after it for a speedy and smooth recovery. Following your dentist’s advice would hasten your recovery, reduce the pain you experience, and avoid complications. This article presents a comprehensive guide for tooth extraction recovery in order to make the recovery process more comfortable.
Immediate Aftercare: The First 24 Hours
The first 24 hours are critical for healing after an extraction due to the fact that during that time, a blood clot should be formed at the extraction site that will coat the site and help heal. Here are some dos and don’ts:
- Bite on Gauze – There will be a gauze pad on the place of extraction placed by the dentist. Hold it for no less than 30 to 45 minutes, placing gentle pressure to stop bleeding.
- Avoid Rinsing or Spitting: Do not rinse, spit, or use a straw for a minimum of 24 hours. All of these will loosen the blood clot and lead to the dire condition known as “dry socket”.
- Ice Pack Application: Place an ice pack on the outside of the affected cheek for 15-20 minutes each hour to help keep swelling down and numb the area.
- Rest and Raise Head: Avoid strenuous activities and elevate your head while at rest, to minimize bleeding and swelling.
Management of Pain and Swelling
Pain and swelling are to be expected after a tooth extraction. Here are some helpful hints to alleviate pain for better tooth extraction aftercare:
- Take Prescribed Medications: Your dentist may prescribe a painkiller, or at least recommend one that is available over the counter. Take according to the direction given.
- Apply a Cold Compress: Keep applying ice packs during the initial 24 hours to keep swelling under check.
- Switch to Warm Compresses: Once 24 hours are over, warm compresses can be used to alleviate any residual pain.
- Consume Soft Foods: Consume soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies to prevent exerting pressure on the extraction area.
Oral Hygiene Tips for Quick Healing
Yes, you can keep the oral cavity clean to prevent infections. Care must, however, be taken with the area from which the teeth were extracted, such as
- Avoid Brushing the Extraction Site: Brush and floss normally, except avoid the area for the first few days after the tooth was removed.
- Gently Rinse with Saltwater: After 24 hours, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater. (1/2 teaspoon salt into 1 cup water) This will kill bacteria as well as promote healing.
- Don’t Use Mouthwash with Alcohol: It may irritate the extraction site and delay healing.
What Not to Do While Recovering?
Recovery from tooth extraction can be prolonged if some habits are not avoided:
- No Smoking or Drinking: Smoking and drinking can interfere with healing and raise the risk of infection and dry socket.
- No Sipping Through a Straw: The suction force when sipping through a straw may dislodge the blood clot, which is likely to cause pain and/or delay healing.
- Limit Physical Activity: Avoid any heavy lifting and exercise for a few days.
- Avoid Hard or Crunchy Foods: Foods like chips, nuts, and popcorn may get lodged in the socket and cause irritation.
Signs of Trouble: When to Call the Dentist
Most extractions heal uneventfully, but contact dental clinic near you, if you encounter any of the following:
- Excessive Bleeding: Bleeding that does not stop after hours.
- Severe Pain: Pain that seemingly worsens after a few days rather than subsides.
- Swelling or Pus That Won’t Go Away: Infection may be present. Any pus, swelling, or bad taste in the mouth could indicate this.
- Fever/Chills: These can indicate an infection and should be followed up promptly.
- Dry Socket: If you feel extreme pain several days following extraction, it may be dry socket, which should be treated immediately.
Leave Your Dental Care in the Hands of a Professional
An uneventful recovery after tooth removal relies on adequate aftercare and heeding your dentist’s advice. If you’re searching for a dentist in NW Calgary with qualified care and instructions, see Kensington Dental Choice. Our trained professionals are committed to your dental comfort and health at every stage. Call us now for skilled treatment and hassle-free dentistry!
