Although our teeth are supposed to last a lifetime, there are a few instances where tooth extraction is required. You should be aware of the dos and don’ts of aftercare if you’ve recently had a tooth pulled. You can obtain respite from the severe pain and help your body recover properly after tooth extraction.
In the sections below, learn which precautions to adopt and which to avoid for a quick recovery following tooth extraction.
What Should Be Done?
1. According to dentists, you should not eat anything for the first several hours after having a tooth pulled. It takes time for a blood clot to form around the extraction site. As a result, it’s best to avoid eating, drinking, or talking for the first 24 hours after surgery. After 45 minutes, you can either consume nut-free ice cream or sip cold milk. Never drink water using a straw if you’re thirsty. Stick to a soft, bland diet during the first few hours after surgery.
2. There will be some bleeding, so keep a gauze pad in your mouth for at least 45 minutes following the extraction. If the bleeding is a little heavier, it’s alright to bite down on the gauze pad. The pressure will help to bring the bleeding to a halt.
3. If you don’t feel any pain following a tooth extraction, it’s probably due to anesthesia-induced insensitivity. In the future, you may detect inflammation surrounding the extraction site.
4. Swelling and discomfort may occur as a result of extraction complications. In these cases, an ice pack can help you reduce not only swelling but also ease the pain. Apply an ice pack to the outside of your mouth for 15-20 minutes.
5. Brush your teeth gently and avoid brushing near the extraction site. A blood clot forms around the extraction site within hours of the procedure. Brushing with too much force can dislodge the blood clot, causing problems. As a result, brush as gently as possible to prevent the blood clot from becoming dislodged.
What Should Not Be Done?
1. Smoking following a tooth extraction might cause a number of problems. In as little as a few days, it can weaken the blood and cause dry sockets to form around the extraction site.
2. While the numbness around the extraction area lasts, avoid eating anything that requires a lot of bite power. This could harm the blood clot or the extraction site without your knowledge. Before eating solid foods, dentists recommend waiting 4-5 hours following the extraction.
3. If you believe the swelling is significant and painful, contact your dentist. Pain medicines, particularly aspirin, should be avoided since they can cause a blot clot to form around the extraction site.
We hope that you now know the aftercare measures to adopt after undergoing tooth extraction. Book your appointment at DNA Dental Studio if you are looking for a safe and effective teeth removal service in Burbank, CA.
