What To Do After Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extraction is a common procedure in adults, and it’s a relatively painless process. The thing to pay the closest attention to is aftercare. When looked after properly, a tooth extraction (or the space that remains) should heal up entirely in 7-10 days. When a care plan isn’t followed, however, problems can arise.

A tooth extraction might be done for a number of reasons. Infections, rot, to make space for an orthodontic procedure like braces, or to repair a trauma that has damaged the teeth are some of the common causes. A dentist will normally apply localized anesthesia in some cases, or general anesthesia in others (for wisdom tooth removal, for example). After the extraction, a clot will form and the patient will be sent home.

The amount of time it will take to heal depends on how well a person takes care of themselves. Here are the Dos and Don’ts to get well soon after tooth extraction.

Dos and Don’ts Aftercare For Tooth Extraction

Do Rest

The body heals best when it is relaxed and not exerting energy toward other things. Laying down, with pillows to prop up the head, and relaxing is the best and most necessary thing to do.

Don’t Fuss Around with the Area

You may want to touch the spot where the tooth once was, or take away the gauze too soon. But the more you can leave it alone, the sooner it will heal. You may have to change the dressing after a few hours but do as little movement around the area as possible.

Don’t Use a Straw

It may be tempting to suck back a smoothie through a straw, but the force of the action can cause damage to the clot when it should be left to heal.

Do Consume Only Liquids/Soft Food

Things like yogurt, pureed soup, applesauce, and yes, smoothies are good because they provide nutrients that help you heal. But make sure they are not too hot or cold and only consume them with a spoon!

Don’t Smoke

Stay away from cigarettes for at least 48 hours after tooth extraction. Not only is the sucking action bad for the fresh wound, but the chemicals in the smoke can affect the clot and make it harder to heal.

Do Use an Ice Pack

Using an ice pack will bring down the swelling and will make the post-extraction healing process more comfortable. Only use for 15-minute intervals through (15 minutes on, 15 minutes off) so that you don’t do damage to the skin.

Don’t Skip Medicine

Keep ahead of the pain and use the medication that the dentist has prescribed. If there is a follow-up appointment, make sure you go. If the pain has become unreasonable, make sure you return to the dentist in case there has been a complication.

If you follow these simple Dos and Don’ts after a tooth extraction, your body should be on its way to healing in no time. It’s a great time to lay back, relax, eat some healthy, nutritious (not too hot) soup, and catch up on that show you’ve been meaning to watch while your body does its thing! If you need any questions about tooth extraction aftercare or looking for a professional south surrey dentist, please contact us.