Aftercare for Your Tooth Extractions

Aftercare for Your Tooth Extractions

After oral surgery to extract a tooth, it’s important that you take proper care of your mouth. Neglecting your mouth can leave you in pain or even lead to an infection. Following a simple recovery plan will ensure that your mouth heals quickly, keeping you free of pain. Just follow these easy tips the days following your dental surgery.

Controlling Bleeding

One of the main goals after your tooth extraction is controlling or minimizing bleeding. You want to promote a clot to form on the extraction site so your mouth can naturally heal itself. Mouth wounds often last longer and are harder to heal because they are constantly covered in saliva, preventing the clot to form.

After the procedure, your dentist will put a gauze pad on your teeth to slow down the bleeding. This pad will remain in your mouth for 30 to 45 minutes after the extraction. If bleeding continues, bite down on another pad firmly for an additional 30 minutes. Don’t panic if there is mild bleeding from the extraction site for the next 24 hours. However, if bleeding continues after this, call your dentist.

Oral Care

For the days following your tooth extraction, you will want to avoid anything that may irritate the clot. This general means being very careful around the extraction sites. Just some of the ways to promote healing and avoid irritation include:

  • Stick to soft foods. Soup, pudding or even a milkshake are fine to eat and drink. Hard, solid foods may interfere with your mouth’s healing process.
  • Do not rinse vigorously or drink through a straw for at least 24 hours.
  • Relax when you get home.
  • Prop your head up on a pillow. Avoid lying flat down as this may prolong bleeding.
  • Stay away from any strenuous activity.
  • Avoid alcohol and smoking.
  • Try to not rub the area with your tongue.

Handling the Pain

After a tooth extraction, many patients experience pain, discomfort and swelling. The pain may range from mild to moderate, but it usually goes away within a few days after the extraction. In the mean time, your dentist will prescribe a pain reliever. It is recommended to stay away from aspirin and ibuprofen as it may prevent your wound from clotting since these are considered to be “blood thinners.”

Also, try placing an ice pack on the outside of the mouth. This can help to relieve pain and control swelling.

We Love Seeing Your Smile!

When it comes to a tooth extraction, proper aftercare is crucial. Be sure to follow all your dentist’s instructions to help your mouth heal. At Daxon Dentistry, your teeth are our passion! If you have any questions about your dental care, give us a call today!

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