Dos and don'ts after a tooth extraction.
While a dentist’s first priority is to save a damaged tooth with a crown or filling, sometimes removal is the best option. Following the right aftercare steps will help ensure a smooth healing process.
What Does a Tooth Extraction Entail?
A tooth extraction is a type of oral surgery where a dental professional removes a tooth from its socket. Extractions may be needed for teeth affected by:
Significant decay, infection, or damage
Crowding
Advanced gum disease
What to Do After a Tooth Extraction
Proper care after your procedure encourages faster healing. Be sure to:
Only eat soft foods. Options like pasta, eggs, and yogurt won’t irritate the extraction site.
Take the directed medications. Staying on top of meds can help you stay pain-free. Follow your dentist’s instructions and take the medicines as prescribed.
Keep your head elevated. This helps a protective blood clot to form at the extraction site, which is essential for healing.
Use an icepack. A cold compress can help reduce swelling.
Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water will eliminate bacteria and keep the extraction site clean.
What Not to Do After Tooth Extraction
Certain activities can interfere with healing or increase the risk of complications. Avoid:
Participating in strenuous activities. Do not lift more than 10 pounds. Avoid any activity that elevates your heart rate and causes pain and bleeding.
Touching the extraction site. Prodding the extraction site will disrupt healing and can cause bleeding.
Vaping and smoking. Inhaling tobacco products can cause the blood vessels to shrink, which prevents blood flow from reaching the wound to heal it.
Using straws. Drinking with a straw can dislodge blood clots and cause a painful condition called dry socket.
Spitting forcefully. Spitting can dislodge blood clots and put pressure on the extraction site.
Taking aspirin. Because it thins the blood, aspirin can increase bleeding.
Prepare for Your Tooth Extraction
If you need an extraction, the team at Hale Family Dentistry will guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how to prepare for your procedure.