What Instructions Are To Be Followed After Extraction?

After a tooth has been pulled out, you must take proper care of the socket created by the extracted tooth. A dentist will give you several instructions to follow. In addition, they will ensure that the gums heal fast without postoperative complications. Here are a few that you should expect from a dentist near you in Youngtown, AZ.

Postoperative Instructions After Tooth Extraction

1. Managing the bleeding

The formation of a blood clot in the socket after an extraction is most important. The clot stops the bleeding and begins the recovery process. Therefore, the dentist will place a piece of gauze in the socket immediately after the procedure. You will be required to bite on the pad for 30-45 minutes, replacing it when it gets soaked. Then, apply firm pressure until the bleeding stops.

Once the clot has formed, the dentist will request you not to interfere with it using a finger or the tongue. Do not use a drinking straw, or spitting forcefully for 24 hours after the extraction. These actions may dislodge the clot leading to continued bleeding and the dry socket condition. Avoid smoking tobacco, too, as it increases the chances of a painful dry socket.

2. Controlling the swelling

You will experience some mild or severe swelling in the mouth after an extraction. Patients who have had a simple extraction swell less than those who undergo surgical extraction. Use an ice pack on the cheek closest to the operated socket for at least 24 hours after the procedure.

The ice pack must be placed on the area for 15-20 minutes, removed for ten minutes then returned. Repeat until the swelling subsides. If the swelling continues until the third-day post-operation, replace the ice packs with moist heat. The heat will alleviate the swelling faster. Next, sleep with your head elevated to keep down the node.

3. Eating

After the procedure, your gums and mouth will remain numb due to the anesthetics used to prevent pain. Therefore, avoid eating until the feeling returns to your mouth. You may accidentally bite your tongue or inner cheek. Consume a soft or liquid diet on the day of the extraction. Stick to foods that do not require a lot of chewing until the socket heals.

Consume cool liquids to help soothe your gums but do not use a straw. However, avoid carbonated drinks for two to three days after surgery. When chewing, use the side of the mouth opposite the extraction site.

4. Maintaining oral hygiene

Proper oral hygiene ensures that the area heals fast. Therefore, you should not neglect to brush and floss daily. Do it gently while avoiding the extraction area as you may dislodge the clot. Twenty-four hours after your extraction, start rinsing your mouth with warm saline water after meals. The solution promotes faster healing. Avoid alcoholic mouth rinses until the socket heals.

5. Taking medications

Take all the medications as directed by your dentist. Avoid operating machinery, swimming, driving, or taking alcohol when taking narcotic pain medication. Contact the dentist near you in Youngtown, AZ, if the drugs do not alleviate the pain or have adverse reactions.

Can I Go to Work After Extraction?

Resting is essential after an extraction because it facilitates healing. Going back to work after extraction depends on the nature of your job and the type of extraction performed. You can resume work 24-48 hours after a simple extraction.

After a surgical extraction, rest exclusively for 48-72 hours. Then, limit your physical activities for a week. Your dentist will give you more precise instructions on when to resume work based on individual needs.

What Steps Can I Take To Prevent the Need for Tooth Extraction?

1. Ensure that you maintain proper oral hygiene. Brush at least two times and floss daily. Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities.
2. Watch what you eat to avoid cavities and gum disease. Eat nutritious foods to help fight oral infections. Limit consuming sugars, starches, and carbohydrates.
3. Attend regular dental visits for preventive measures. At Agua Fria Dental, we provide treatments to ensure that you will not need an extraction. They include fluoride treatments, dental sealants, root canals, and dental cleanings. After your extraction, we can help restore your smile through tooth placement. Contact us for more information.