Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Getting your tooth removed can be very painful, leave alone removing several. A mature tooth is deeply rooted in your gum. Removing it disrupts the surrounding tissues and causes significant pain.

Even then, there are perks to getting your tooth removed. Sometimes the letting your tooth go is better than withstanding the pain of the toothache. Many patients get their teeth extracted to counter tooth cavity, while others do it to create room for other teeth to grow properly. No matter what your reason is, getting your tooth removed is a procedure that requires adjusting to.

What happens immediately after your tooth is extracted?

When the dentist is done working on your tooth, you will be sent home to heal. If local anesthesia was used in your procedure, you might experience numbness in your out a few hours after the tooth extraction. Even then, keep the gauze on for at least 2 hours. It will prevent heavy bleeding of the wound.

Within the first 24 hours. The dentist may ask you to eat ice-cream. Ice-cream is cold and soft. This makes it easy to eat without hurting your wound. Besides, the low temperature of the ice-cream is therapeutic. The coldness of the ice-cream will constrict the blood vessels around your wound and reduce swelling. Afterward, you can eat other foods, even warm.

How do you take care of the wound after the procedure?

Drinks after procedure

Resist the urge to rinse out your mouth with water within the first 24 hours. This will allow your body to form a clot for your wound and start the healing process without a dry socket.

Do not use a straw for drinking your juices or drinks within the first week of the treatment. The straw will allow air to get to your wound and lead to a dry socket, which is painful.

Eating habits

The types of food you choose after your treatment play a big role in facilitating the healing after the tooth extraction in East Mesa, AZ. Here are some factors to consider when selecting your food options:

• Soft foods – your mouth may not be ready to chew on hard foods like nuts and carrots soon after the extraction. They may scratch the surface of the wound and deter the healing process. This can also be very painful for you. Stick to soft foods like Greek yogurt, soups, and smoothies.
• Nutritious foods – as your wound heals, you need to consume many nutrients to speed up the healing. Opt for foods that are high in proteins, energy, vitamins, and minerals.
• Regulated temperatures – after tooth extraction, taking very hot or cold foods and drinks can cause discomfort and pain. Extreme temperatures will interfere with the blood vessels in the surrounding tissue of the wound, provoking pain, and sensitivity. Eat warm foods and drinks that are lukewarm or at room temperature.

Control the swelling

As the healing continues, it is normal for your face to swell. Consider cold or warm compress to counter the swelling. Place an ice pack on the affected cheek for a few minutes to reduce the swelling. You can also use a warm towel cloth to achieve the same results.

Reducing the pain

The first few days of your recovery can be painful. Your dentist will prescribe some painkillers to help you cope with the pain. Use the drugs as prescribed by your dentist.

Dislodging the clot

It can be tempting to run your tongue through the wounded site. However, your tongue is a powerful muscle that can dislodge the clot formed on the wound. Removing it deteriorates the healing process. It can even cause bleeding or lead to an infection. This is particularly important within the first 24 hours of your recovery.

Resting

Resting is necessary after the procedure. It is important to restrict any intense physical activity in the first few days. Exercise increases the blood pressure and circulation in your body. This can cause your wound to start bleeding.

When sleeping, use a pillow to elevate your head. The elevation will prevent further swelling of the affected area.

How long does the wound take to heal?

A wound from tooth extraction typically takes between one and two weeks to heal properly. However, this depends heavily on the aftercare you accord to your wound during the healing period.