Uncover Recovery Tips for Tooth Extraction

When you need to have a tooth extraction, your first reaction may be concern. But the best response is to be prepared and know what to expect. Once you know how to handle the healing process, you can recover quickly and easily.

How to Keep Pain Under Control

The idea of a tooth extraction may sound alarming, but the procedure of pulling teeth is painless because of the anesthetic you will receive before the procedure begins. You may feel tenderness for the first few days after a tooth extraction, but it’s typically mild discomfort that will reduce as your recover. Follow your dentist’s instructions for toothache relief throughout your recovery. While over-the-counter pain relievers are often the best way to ease discomfort, your dentist may prescribe something stronger. Be sure to avoid aspirin after a tooth extraction since it may cause additional bleeding.

7 Tips for Healing

As soon as the tooth has been removed, your dentist will place a gauze pack in the socket and ask you to bite down on it firmly. While this might sound strange, it will actually form a blood clot that will help the wound heal. The most important aftercare tip is not to disturb this clot while it heals since that can lead to serious pain and the risk of infection. Try these seven tips to provide toothache relief and prevent problems:

1. Stay home and relax for about a few days after the tooth extraction.
2. Limit all exercise during that week.
3. Elevate your head while lying down to help prevent bleeding.
4. No rinsing your mouth or spitting for 24 hours after the procedure.
5. After this 24-hour period, try to rinse your mouth with warm saltwater up to four times a day for a week to reduce the risk of infection.
6. Do not use a straw when drinking; instead, take small sips from a glass.
7. Stick to soft foods for the first few days, but add in solid foods as you heal.

Healing Time: What to Expect

After pulling teeth, you may require medication for toothache relief for about a week, but the pain should improve each day. It takes two or three weeks for the tooth extraction site to safely heal, and up to six months for the bone to settle into place. Be aware that severe pain after a tooth extraction is not normal and that you must call your dentist immediately since this may be a sign of a complication.

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Sweetwater, call Sweetwater Smiles today at (321) 594-2628 or make an appointment.

Advanced Dental Care offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Sweetwater. With 21 affiliated practices throughout Florida, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Sweetwater Smiles, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Sweetwater Smiles.