Tooth extraction is a surgical procedure that requires several days, typically 7 to 10, for recovery. In this article, we discuss how to optimize recovery from tooth extraction.
How to Optimize Recovery from Tooth Extraction
During the recovery period after tooth extraction, you might experience pain or soreness in the surgery site for several days. In some cases, patients have swelling in the face or jaw that goes away in a couple of days. Some minor bleeding right after the surgery is also expected.
However, it should stop several hours after the procedure. If you experience excessive bleeding for longer than 12 hours, contact your dentist immediately, as it might indicate some complications.
Once your tooth is removed, a blood clot will start forming in the socket. The blood clot is essential for swift healing of the extraction site and must be preserved in the socket. If the blood clot is disturbed, a painful condition called “dry socket” occurs. It can cause unpleasant complications and significantly prolong the recovery time. To ensure that the recovery goes smoothly and as fast as possible, please follow the rules we list below.
Stay on Top of Your Hygiene Routine
To avoid infections, you need to keep your mouth clean and free of food residue and bacteria. For this, brush your teeth twice a day and floss every evening. However, be gentle when brushing and flossing at the extraction site so as not to disturb the blood clot in the socket. You may also rinse your mouth after meals but do not gargle your mouth with force to preserve the blood clot.
Rinse Your Mouth with Salt Water
Avoid prolonging the bleeding after the extraction, and do not use saltwater rinses on the day of the surgery. Starting the next day, you can rinse your mouth with salt water 3 to 4 times a day, including rinsing after meals. Salt water has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It prevents infections and promotes healing.
Adhere to a Liquid Diet on the Day of Extraction
A liquid diet is recommended on the day of extraction because it does not require chewing or biting and will not put additional strain on your gums and jaw. Such a diet might include smoothies, broth, yogurt, pureed soups, etc. However, make sure to avoid eating or drinking anything too hot or cold.
Adhere to a Soft Diet Starting on the Second Day After the Extraction
Starting the second day after the extraction, you may move to a soft diet. Examples of soft foods include pate, pureed vegetables, mashed potatoes, and soft cutlets. Avoid hard and crunchy foods that might damage the gums around the extraction site or get stuck in the socket.
Do Not Use a Straw
Never drink through a straw after the tooth extraction, as it creates suction in the mouth, which can disturb the blood clot.
Avoid Nicotine and Alcohol
Both nicotine and alcohol significantly slow down healing and regeneration, so it is essential to avoid these substances until the recovery is complete. Also, abstain from smoking and drinking alcohol one day before the surgery, as it might interfere with the anesthetic administered before the procedure.
Reduce Swelling
If you experience swelling in the face or jaw, keep your head alleviated when lying down by using an additional pillow. You can also use ice packs and apply them to the outer side of your cheek on the extraction site. Hold an ice pack to the cheek for 15 minutes at a time, several times a day. Always take at least 20 to 30-minute breaks between the applications.
Avoid Strenuous Activities
Take one or several days off work after the extraction to get enough rest. Also, avoid sports and any other strenuous activities that involve leaning down, walking a tot, or picking up heavy things for a week after the surgery. Such activities can promote blood flow to the extraction site and cause excessive bleeding and swelling.
Get a Full Night’s Rest Before and After Extraction
Good sleep is essential for swift healing. Sleep for at least 8 hours on the nights before and after the extraction so your body can regenerate effectively.
Manage Pain
Often, patients do not experience severe pain after the tooth extraction, especially if the surgery is not complicated. However, some throbbing and tenderness are still likely to be present. Over-the-counter painkillers, such as Ibuprofen, are typically effective at managing these sensations. However, take care to stay within the recommended dose and follow the instructions closely. Your dentist might recommend other types of painkillers as well.
Make Sure to Take the Prescribed Medication
In some cases, your dentist might prescribe antibiotics or other medication to take after the tooth extraction if there is a risk of an infection or complications. Make sure to take the entire course of the prescribed medications.
Make an Appointment Today
Call today to make an appointment with a dentist in Norco for a consultation or a tooth extraction. Our specialists provide stress-free, high-quality extraction surgeries. We look forward to your visit to Absolute Family Dentistry.
