Recovering From Tooth Extraction: The Dos and Don’ts

Leon just had his tooth extracted as he will be getting orthodontic treatment to fix his crowded teeth. It was especially a daunting experience as he had never experienced a tooth extraction. After the procedure, he was instructed by the dentist on what to do and what not to do after the extraction.

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Tooth extraction is a relatively common procedure for adults. A tooth may require extraction due to multiple reasons, such as tooth decay, orthodontic treatment, impacted tooth or gum disease.

For simple extractions, dentists usually use an instrument known as elevator to rock and loosen the tooth for subsequent removal using dental forceps. In certain cases such as for impacted teeth or difficult extractions, surgical extractions may be necessary. This means that the dentist will have to make an incision along the gum, removing some bone tissues and extract the tooth in pieces.

Dry socket. Image source

Healing for tooth extraction usually takes around 1 to 2 weeks and varies from person to person. Nevertheless, aftercare is essential for any tooth extraction to ensure a smooth recovery. It is especially important to keep the blood clot in place in the socket after extraction to prevent dry socket. Dry socket happens when there is absence of blood clot causing bone exposure in the socket and lead to extreme pain. Even as you mourn the loss of the tooth, to avoid complications, it is important to follow these post extraction tips.

Several Post-Extraction Tips to Follow

Do’s

• Take painkillers as prescribed

It is recommended to take painkillers before the anaesthesia wears off to ease any discomfort.

• Eat soft, cold food or drink

For example, soup, pudding, yoghurt, ice-creams. Also, remember to rehydrate yourself with nourishing fluids.

• Brush your teeth gently

Avoid brushing around the extraction socket but brush your other teeth as usual.

• Bite on a clean gauze or handkerchief if there is bleeding

It is normal to have slight bleeding after extraction. Bite firmly on clean gauze or handkerchief to apply pressure on the socket instead of rinsing out the blood.

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Don’ts

• Do not rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours

Do not rinse or spit after the procedure to avoid dislodging the blood clot

• No smoking

Smoking may break down blood clot, increases the risk of having dry socket

• Do not drink hot liquids or alcohol

This may encourage further bleeding and delay healing

• Avoid strenuous exercises

Take it easy for the rest of the day to avoid any excessive bleeding from the extraction socket

When to see a dentist:

• Do get in touch with the dentist if you experience any of the following after tooth extraction
• Severe pain the day after tooth extraction
• Uncontrolled bleeding
• Increased swelling even a few days after extraction

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Tags

• care tips
• dental extraction
• Oral Health
• tooth extraction