A dental extraction is a procedure to remove a tooth from its socket in the bone, and it requires aftercare. Dentists may recommend this treatment for several reasons, including severe decay, advanced gum disease, or a tooth that is broken beyond repair. Your dentist can make sure you are comfortable throughout the procedure, and proper care helps the healing process go smoothly. Here is more information on caring for your mouth after dental extractions:
Take Medications
Your dentist might recommend or prescribe medication to manage discomfort after the anesthetic wears off, so you will want to have it available. It is a good idea to take the first dose before the numbness completely fades. Following the prescribed schedule for any medications helps you stay ahead of potential soreness.
Drink Lots of Water
Staying hydrated supports healing, and drinking plenty of water helps you feel better overall. Proper hydration assists your body’s natural recovery functions after a dental procedure. To stay hydrated, you should drink water regularly throughout the day.
While you are focusing on hydration, it is best to avoid certain beverages for a few days. Steer clear of alcoholic, caffeinated, or hot drinks. These types of drinks can interfere with healing, and they may increase discomfort at the extraction site.
After dental extractions, choose room-temperature water as your primary beverage. It is gentle on the sensitive tissues in your mouth, and it will not disrupt the protective clot forming in the socket. This simple choice supports a comfortable and steady recovery period.
Avoid Using Straws
You may feel tempted to use a straw for drinks, but this action can cause problems for the healing socket. The suction created when you use a straw is typically strong enough to dislodge the blood clot that is forming. This clot is nature’s bandage, and protecting it is very important for proper healing.
Losing the blood clot leads to a painful condition called dry socket, and it will require another visit to your dentist. A dry socket exposes the underlying bone and nerves, causing significant pain and delaying your recovery. Gently sipping drinks directly from a glass is a much safer alternative.
Chew on the Other Side
When you start eating soft foods again, be mindful of where you chew. Make a conscious effort to chew on the side of your mouth opposite the extraction site. This protects the sensitive area from pressure and food particles. You can eat many soft foods while you recover. Sticking to these options prevents irritation:
- Yogurt
- Applesauce
- Pudding
- Mashed potatoes
It’s wise to keep the extraction site clean to prevent infection. You should rinse your mouth gently with a saltwater solution, but avoid vigorous swishing as it can disturb the healing process. While maintaining oral hygiene is helpful, take care not to brush directly over the extraction area until it has fully healed.
Schedule Dental Extractions Today
Following these aftercare steps can help you have a smooth and comfortable recovery. Taking care of your mouth after an extraction promotes healing and helps you get back to your routine. If you have a tooth that is causing you pain, reach out to our office to schedule a consultation and learn about your options.