Tooth extraction scares a lot of people, but thanks to modern dentistry, it doesn’t have to be that way. Here’s some information from Web MD on what you can expect after the extraction:
Bleeding: When this happens, your dentist will likely ask you to bite on a piece of gauze until a blod clot builds up over the socket. Bite it firmly but gently. Don’t grind or bite down too hard. Also, ask your doctor how long you’ll need to keep the pad in place and do that. Don’t take the gauze out prematurely.
Swelling: After the procedure, try applying an ice bag to the area to minimize the swelling. Leave the ice bag there for 10 minutes, take it off then reapply until you feel the swelling go down. Make sure to ask your doctor how to pull this off without injuring or harming yourself. The proper procedure also keeps you safe from any risk of infection.
Recovery Time: Expect the recovery to take a few days. Don’t try to do any heavy lifting or anything strenuous for the first two days. If you do, you might risk reopening the wound, which would only extend your recovery time. Follow doctor’s orders. Give your body time to heal and rest.
Rinsing or Spitting: Avoid doing both for at least the next six hours after the tooth extraction. This is to keep the blod clot in place. Dislodging that from the socket could lead to excessive bleeding, something you definitely want to avoid at all costs. Instead, prepare a mixture of salt – half a teaspoon will do – and warm water. When the six-hour mark passes, gently rinse your mouth with the solution to help get rid of any bacteria in your mouth.
Straws: Keep away from straws for the first twenty four hours after the procedure since the suction could accidently dislodge the blod clot.
Smoke: Smoking can compromise your body’s healing. To ensure faster recovery, do away with your smoke breaks.
Food: Restrict your diet to softer food. Soup or yoghurt are ideal. When the extraction wound heals, that’s when you can start adding solids to your meals.
Discomfort: Take painkillers to ease the discomfort. Make sure these have been prescribed or recommended by your dentist.
These are just some of the things you can expect after a tooth extraction. If you’re ready for an appointment and you’re in Gulfport, MS, the Harbor View Oral and Facial Surgery Center offers tooth extraction services that emphasize quality patient care.
