Healing After Tooth Extraction
I had a tooth extracted, now what? This is a question many people have, as post-operative care is essential for patient recovery. But don't worry, we’ll help you through this process. Read on!
How is a tooth extracted?
After having an evaluation with your trusted dentist, it's very likely that they will have requested an X-ray so they can see the position of your teeth and the presence of one or more roots in the tooth that will be extracted. The day before your tooth extraction surgery, your dentist may prescribe some medications, such as anti-inflammatories or antibiotics, just to prevent any possible complications. It's important to note that you will be conscious throughout the entire tooth extraction process, as it is a local anesthetic, applied only to the area of the tooth being extracted. Once the tooth extraction is completed, the final step of this procedure involves suturing the dental socket, or rather, your dentist will "stitch" the area where the tooth was extracted, and you will be free to go home.
Important care after tooth extraction
Like any surgery, there are precautions to be taken, and after a tooth extraction, it's no different.
- Take care of your diet.
Nutrition plays a very important role in your recovery from this surgery. Never go without eating, as you may feel weak, and you may also experience stomach pain due to any medication you are given. To better heal after a tooth extraction, the foods you can't eat are generally as follows: hot foods are prohibited, as they can cause bleeding in the area where the tooth was extracted. So, opt for cold foods – liquid or semi-solid: ice cream, popsicles, juices, smoothies, soups, yogurt, among others. Drink plenty of water; your body needs to be hydrated every day, including after tooth extraction surgery.
- Get the recommended rest.
Take advantage of your post-operative period to catch up on your favorite Netflix series. Yes, rest is very important, and you should follow it. Avoid sun exposure and staying away from stoves: heat can cause bleeding because it stimulates blood circulation in the area where the tooth was extracted.
- Maintain good hygiene.
It's important to remember that hygiene practices should be maintained, but with a little more attention. Do not rinse your mouth for the first few days, and always perform the cleaning in front of a mirror; this greatly helps you visualize how you are cleaning the area where the tooth was extracted. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and use a small amount of toothpaste to avoid creating too much foam.
- Take the prescribed medications.
This is the time when you set an alarm on your cell phone to remind you of all the times you need to take your medications, so you don't forget any. Yes, you need to follow the correct medication schedule. Don't skip any!
- Avoid cigarettes and alcoholic beverages.
When it comes to wound healing, smokers should be on high alert. Quitting smoking is essential to avoid problems with the healing of the area where the tooth was extracted. Regarding alcoholic beverages, the advice is the same: discontinue their use. If taken along with treatment medications, there may be side effects and even inhibition of the medication's effects.
- Avoid tasks that require physical exertion.
Rest as directed and avoid physical exertion for at least 24 hours after the tooth extraction procedure.
After the procedure, you might notice a small hole where the tooth was extracted, and yes, that's normal. You can gently rinse your mouth to remove any food particles that may remain there after meals. As the days go by, you'll notice that this little hole closes up more and more, since the healing process is from the inside out.
In conclusion
Healing after a tooth extraction takes patience and proper care, but by following your dentist’s instructions, you’ll be back to normal in no time. Keep your mouth clean, rest well, and stay hydrated. If you notice any unusual pain or swelling, contact your dentist immediately—your recovery matters! Contact us today for more information!