Sometimes, even with all the tools and procedures that modern dentistry provides, tooth damage can be so severe that the only solution is extraction.
Luckily, you have lots of tooth replacement options that can easily restore your teeth after this happens. But until then, it’s important to make sure you take a few precautions and help the extraction site to heal properly.
Here are all the do’s and don’ts after tooth extraction:
Tooth Extraction Do’s
- Take time to rest - Tooth extractions only take around 20-30 minutes tops, but don’t let that fool you. They are still a major procedure that requires time to heal properly. So for the first 1-2 days after your extraction, be sure to take it easy and avoid exercising or strenuous physical activity. Otherwise, you can increase your risk for bleeding;
- Take care of your oral health - Proper oral hygiene is crucial to ensuring your extraction site heals. Though you should not brush over the extraction site for the first week, you should brush and floss the rest of your teeth, then use saline water or gentle mouthwash to cleanse the mouth;
- Take care of pain and swelling - It’s perfectly normal to experience a bit of pain and swelling the first few days after your extraction. You can take OTC pain medication like Ibuprofen to help keep it at bay or apply a cold compress to your cheek. Avoid aspirin at this time because it is a blood thinner that can promote bleeding.
Tooth Extraction Don’ts
- Dislodge the blood clot - Right after the tooth is pulled, a blood clot forms in its place to protect all the sensitive nerves and tissues. It’s important to leave this clot alone. Otherwise, you could develop a complication known as a dry socket. Be sure not to touch the clot with your toothbrush, tongue, or when chewing;
- Smoke - Smoking can delay healing, and the suction used when smoking a cigarette can increase your risk of developing dry socket. It’s best to cut this habit at least for a week;
- Chew on the side of the extraction - Keep food away from the extraction site as much as possible by chewing your food on the other side of the mouth. You should also switch to softer foods for the first few days to prevent any hard particles from accidentally disrupting the blood clot;
- Drink through a straw - Like smoking cigarettes, straws force you to make suction motions which could dislodge the blood clot. It can seem like a straw will help protect the extraction site, but you are much better off without it!
Get Your Tooth Safely Extracted at Corona Smile Shoppe
If you are dealing with severe damage and might need an extraction, Dr. Juan Martinez is here to help you.
Schedule a visit at Corona Smile Shoppe online, or call us at (951) 444-7010 today!
