Usually, our teeth are made to last a lifetime, but there are several situations where we may go for a tooth extraction. Those who recently extracted their tooth have to take care of the do’s and don’ts. The aftercare not only helps to relieve extreme pain but can also properly heal you.
Let’s look at the tooth extraction procedure and the dos and don’ts so you can recover safely and quickly.
Tooth Extraction Procedure
These days, tooth extraction is a process that aims to minimise trauma to the surrounding tissues, reducing the risk of postoperative complications and allowing for a smoother and more efficient procedure.
Most dental surgeons go for post-surgery instructions as a common practice, which are handed to the patient. The patient needs to follow these instructions after tooth extraction to reduce the chances of dry socket and incidence of infection.
Is Tooth Extraction the Right Option?
It is always the best idea for you to maintain healthy teeth. There are many reasons why tooth extraction becomes necessary, and these include the:
- Severe tooth infection
- Retained teeth
- Preparing for prosthetics or orthodontic treatment
- Impaction
What are the Do’s and Don’ts of Tooth Extraction?
Do’s
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- Never Eat or Drink Immediately
Your dentist always advises you to refrain from eating immediately after tooth extraction. The formation of a blood clot around the extraction site always takes time. Therefore, avoiding eating, drinking, and even talking directly after surgery is always wise. If you are feeling thirsty, try using a straw for drinking water and beginning with a soft bland diet.
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- Brush Gently
You must brush gently and avoid touching the extraction site—the blood clot around the extraction forms within a few hours. If you brush, the pressure applied might dislodge the blood clot, and it can cause complications. Hence, you must brush carefully and gently to prevent blood clot dislodging.
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- Use Ice Packs
Although modern techniques and anesthesia have significantly reduced the discomfort associated with tooth extraction, some patients may experience swelling and pain afterwards. In such cases, using an ice pack outside the mouth for 15-20 minutes can help reduce the swelling
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- Stop Bleeding by Using Cotton Gauze
You will have some bleeding after tooth extraction, and your dentist may ask you to go for a gauze pad for a few minutes after the extraction. You can bite down the gauze pad if the bleeding is heavier, as its pressure will stop it.
Don’ts
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- Don’t Take Aspirin
If you feel too much swelling and pain, you should contact your dentist. Doctors always advise not to take painkillers, especially Aspirin, as it delays the formation of a blood clot around the extraction site.
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- Avoid Eating Solids
When there is numbness on the tooth extraction site, you must avoid food that needs bite force. It can damage the blood clot or the extraction site without knowing. You can eat solids generally after 5-6 hours of extraction.
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- Avoid Smoking
If you start smoking after tooth extraction, it can invite several complications. The blood and dry socks are formed around the extraction site within a few days. Doctors always refrain from smoking, but it is essential to avoid it, especially after tooth extraction.
Tooth Extractions in Chatswood, NSW, Australia
Whether it is the removal of your wisdom teeth or making way for orthodontic or restorative treatment, you will get superior professional dental care at Simply Dental Chatswood. Our expert team makes tooth extraction simple and affordable.
You can contact us today to schedule an appointment, as we look forward to your visit.