Post Tooth-Extraction Care: The Dos and Don’ts That You Need to Know

Getting your tooth pulled is not something anyone would enjoy, even if the tooth is severely damaged. One of the reasons could be that we innately know that natural teeth are here to stay. However, there comes a time when our dentist in Calgary may recommend that you get a tooth extraction.

There could be several reasons for getting a tooth extracted, including:

• Having impacted teeth
• Periodontal infections that have affected the structural integrity of your teeth
• Damaged permanent teeth because of decay or trauma
• Preparing for orthodontia if you have overcrowded teeth

Always remember that tooth extractions performed by our emergency dentist are always a last resort. This is why we have tons of restorative treatments that might aid in keeping your natural teeth intact.

Typically, tooth extractions are painless and are done in under an hour. However, tooth extraction aftercare is critical to help you heal faster and dramatically reduce the chances of getting an infection.

So, as you begin the journey to recovery, you will need proper aftercare for tooth extraction, and here are some pointers.

The Dos

• Remove the Gauze at the Right Time

Immediately after a tooth extraction, our dentist will place gauze on the socket to stop the bleeding and initiate blood clotting. It would be best to bite down on the gauze for approximately half an hour to an hour.

Clotting is the initial stage of healing and ensures that the extraction site is sealed to prevent food particles from getting lodged in the socket.

• Use Icepacks

After undergoing a tooth extraction, you might experience some bruising or inflammation that may cause some swelling. Icepacks are an excellent source of relief and can help reduce swelling. Use it for 15 minutes and then break for 15 minutes; repeat this for about 2 hours. This remedy is effective within the first 48 hours after the extraction.

• Rest and Recuperate

As you may already know, rest is a critical part of healing. So, it would be appropriate for you to take it easy after your tooth extraction. Refrain from strenuous activities and heavy lifting, especially 48 hours after an extraction.

Also, lie on a pillow since it is best to keep your head elevated. Plus, don’t sleep on the side where your tooth has been extracted.

• Take Your Medication

You will get some prescription painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate the pain and discomfort while you recover. Also, if our dentist deems it necessary, you might be given prescription antibiotics to deal with any infection. Taking these drugs would ensure that your recovery will go as expected.

• Maintain Your Oral Hygiene

Maintaining your oral hygiene is a daily habit. Therefore, you will still need to continue brushing and flossing your teeth after meals. However, you can skip brushing your teeth the first 24 hours after an extraction.

But after that, resume cleaning your teeth as usual. However, avoid the extraction site while brushing and flossing. Plus, steer clear of mouthwashes for a while.

Cleaning your teeth will ensure that your teeth are bacteria-free, thus reducing the chances of getting an infection.

• Follow the Diet Restrictions

Once you have removed the gauze, you can start taking lukewarm and cold soft foods and drinks such as ice cream and yogurt. However, carbonated drinks and solid foods are not your friends after an extraction.

You can ease back into solid foods with soft foods after 48 hours. You can indulge in foods such as mashed potatoes, eggs, broth, etc.

The Don’ts

• Don’t Poke the Extraction Site

You might feel a bit strange when your tooth has been extracted. So, don’t be tempted to poke the socket with your tongue, toothpick, or even finger. This can destroy the blood clot and can cause you to bleed.

• Don’t Smoke

If you smoke, try not to do so for at least 48 hours after the extraction. The chemicals released from smoking tobacco can affect the extraction site, and you can develop a dry socket.

• Don’t Use Straws

When taking any fluids, avoid using straws since the suction is not suitable for the clot. This action can dislodge the blood clot and lead to further complications, such as bleeding or even a dry socket.

• Avoid Gaggling and Spitting

Refrain from swishing water in your mouth and then spitting it out. This movement can easily remove the clot and cause irritation, bleeding, and eventually a dry socket.

The Takeaway

It might seem that there are many guidelines that you need to follow for your socket to heal. However, it is a short-lived issue. This is because tooth extraction for braces healing time can be 7 – 10 days, especially if it was a simple extraction.

In any case, contact our dentist near you at Chaparral Valley Dental if you need a tooth extraction.