Tooth Extraction Aftercare: What Are the Dos and Don’ts?

Tooth extractions are never experiences that anyone can look forward to. Losing a pearly white is no fun. However, when you are scheduled to undergo an infected tooth extraction at our dentist’s office near you in Smithfield, UT, then there is no other choice.

But there is no need to fret. We live in a time where we have advanced dental technology that can guarantee that your smile will be in tip-top shape after undergoing wisdom teeth removal near you.

In any case, you need to know how to care for the socket after getting a tooth pulled. Having the right information can make a huge difference and can even decrease your recovery time.

Aftercare Guidelines

Everyone who has had a tooth extraction would want to know how long it would take for the socket to heal. However, the recovery duration is highly dependent on the type of extraction and the type of tooth being extracted.

For instance, there are two types of extractions, simple and surgical. With simple extractions, the tooth is visible and is above the gum line. You can expect the wound to seal and heal after seven days. Complete healing will take another week.

On the other hand, surgical extractions are performed only when the tooth is beneath the gum line. The procedure is more extensive and so expect the socket to seal after six weeks. Complete healing will take several months. Also, if the tooth being pulled has multiple roots, then the socket may also take longer to heal than the one with a single root.

The Do’s

• Allow Clotting to Take Place

After the extraction, our dentist will place gauze to enhance clotting. You will need to bite down the gauze for about an hour before removing it. The pressure is good for the extraction site since it stops the bleeding.

Clotting is critical if you desire for your socket to heal. This is because clotting creates a protective barrier that ensures that the bone and the nerves are not exposed to air, fluids, and foods, which will prevent infections.

• Rest

When you undergo an extraction, it doesn’t mean that you will be bedridden. However, you may need to tone down some strenuous activities that may increase blood flow in that area, especially within the initial 24 hours.

Also, it aids the body to recuperate and speeds up healing. When you sleep, ensure that you don’t sleep on the extraction site and also elevate your head.

• Use Ice Packs

Typically, after an extraction, you might expect to see some swelling. This is normal, especially within the first 24 hours, and it can last up to three days. Ice packs are excellent in reducing swelling and alleviating pain. You can apply an ice pack for 15 minutes and then remove it for another 15 minutes. Follow this pattern for roughly two hours.

• Maintain Your Oral Hygiene

Brushing and flossing your teeth should continue as usual. However, you can skip doing this within the first 24 hours after the procedure. Then, you can resume the next day. This will help keep your mouth bacteria-free and thus reduce the chances of infection. Remember not to disturb the extraction site.

• Follow Diet Restrictions

After an extraction, you can take lukewarm fluids and cold soft foods such as ice cream and yogurt. Avoid hard solid foods and carbonated drinks within the first 48 hours after your tooth has been pulled.

The Don’ts

• Avoid Smoking

You should avoid smoking for at least 48 hours after an extraction. Tar and nicotine can affect the clot and increase the chances of developing a dry socket four days later.

• Avoid Sucking

Sipping, smoking, and even drinking from straws should be avoided at all costs after an extraction. Suction can dislodge the clot and increase the chances of getting a dry socket.

• Avoid Eating Hard and Spicy Foods

Hard and spicy foods can injury and inflammation that can increase the pain and even cause you to have an infection.

• Don’t Skip Taking Your Medication

You will be given antibiotics and pain medication after the extraction. Ensure that you take them since they will help with the pain and swelling. Avoid taking blood thinners for a few days since they can hinder clot formation, thus hindering healing.

• Don’t Poke the Socket

It might take some getting used to after you have had an extraction. However, don’t give in to the temptation of poking the area with your tongue or any other object. You can dislodge the clot or even hurt yourself. This can lead to a dry socket.

If you think you need an extraction and desire to schedule an appointment, contact our dentist’s office near you in Smithfield, UT, Webber Dental.