How to Deal with Life After a Tooth Extraction

If you are like most people, you probably dread the thought of having a tooth extracted. The good news is that following these simple tips can make the process as smooth and painless as possible.

After your tooth is extracted, taking care of yourself and allowing your body to heal is important. That’s why Summit Dental Group would like to provide you with the following helpful tips on how to deal with life after a tooth extraction.

Don’t Disturb the Area

The first thing you need to do after your tooth is extracted is to leave it alone. That means no poking or prodding at the empty socket with your tongue. It also means avoiding any temptation to brush the area vigorously. You might also want to avoid using a straw for the first few days, as the suction can cause additional bleeding. If you must drink something through a straw, be sure to use a soft one.

Apply Pressure

For the first few hours after your tooth is extracted, it is essential to apply pressure to the area with a clean gauze pad. This will help stop any bleeding and allow the blood clot that forms in the socket to stay in place.

If you have been given dissolvable stitches, they will eventually dissolve on their own. In the meantime, you can gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water starting the day after your tooth is extracted.

Keep Your Head Up

To prevent bleeding, you should also avoid lying flat for the first few hours after your extraction. So, sleep in a recliner or prop yourself up with some pillows if you need to rest. And, of course, don’t forget to take it easy in general for the next few days. Avoid strenuous activity and give yourself time to heal.

Stay Vigilant About Bleeding

Even if you follow all of the above instructions, it is still normal to experience some bleeding for the first day or two after your tooth is extracted. If the bleeding is heavy or lasts longer than a couple of days, be sure to call your dentist in Boise. The same goes for any pain that seems out of the ordinary or gets worse over time.

Stop Smoking

If you smoke, now is the time to quit. Smoking impedes healing and can cause complications after surgery, including a tooth extraction. So, if you’ve wanted to quit smoking, this is the perfect opportunity to do so. Your dentist can help you find resources to make quitting easier.

Eat Soft Foods

You should also stick to soft foods for the first few days after your tooth is extracted. Eating hard or crunchy foods can dislodge the blood clot that forms in the socket and lead to painful complications. So, be sure to stock up on soup, yogurt, applesauce, and other soft foods before your procedure. And don’t forget to stay hydrated!

Take Your Medications

Be sure to take any pain medication or antibiotics prescribed by your dentist in Boise as directed. This will help you manage any pain or discomfort and reduce the risk of infection. With a little preparation and care, you can make the recovery process after a tooth extraction as smooth and easy as possible.

Be Careful About Nausea

Some people experience nausea after tooth extraction, especially if they have had anesthesia. This is usually nothing to worry about and will go away on its own within a day or two. If the nausea is severe, lasts more than a day or two, or is accompanied by vomiting, however, be sure to give your dentist in Boise a call.

Keep an Eye Out for Infection

Infection is another possible complication after a tooth extraction. Be sure to watch for signs of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, redness, and discharge from the socket. If you notice any of these signs, be sure to give your dentist in Boise a call right away.

Schedule an Appointment with Summit Dental

If you are in need of a tooth extraction, the team at Summit Dental can help. We offer a wide range of dental services, including extractions, and our experienced dentists will work with you to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible throughout the entire process. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact us today by filling out our online form or give us a call at (208) 314-2275. We look forward to hearing from you.