After a tooth extraction, proper aftercare is crucial for a smooth recovery. It’s important to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions closely. Take any prescribed medications as instructed and finish the full course of antibiotics if advised. Bite down on gauze for the recommended time to control bleeding and aid in blood clot formation. Next, we’ll review ways to help your healing once you’ve left the doctor’s office.

Ice Packs
To minimize swelling and discomfort, apply an ice pack to the affected area for short intervals during the first 24 hours. Avoid using ice directly on the skin and take frequent breaks from the ice pack, usually every 10-15 minutes.

Saline Rinse & Oral Hygiene
Maintain good oral hygiene by gently brushing your teeth and tongue and avoiding the extraction site. Use a mild, alcohol-free mouthwash or a saline solution for gentle rinsing after 24 hours. Tilt your head to soak the extraction site instead of swishing to avoid dislodging the blood clot at the extraction site.

Watch What You Eat
Stick to a soft diet and avoid extremely hot foods. You should also avoid spicy or hard-to-chew items like crunchy snacks or tough breads. Steer clear of straws and tobacco, as sucking motions can dislodge the blood clot crucial for healing, leading to dry socket.

Take It Easy
Refrain from vigorous physical activity for a few days and allow your body time to rest. Monitor for signs of infection, such as increased swelling, persistent bleeding, or severe pain beyond the initial recovery period.

Precise, Modern Tooth Extraction Services

Having a tooth extracted can be tiring on the body as it works to heal from the surgery. But, with these tooth extraction aftercare tips, you can help your body heal effectively and quickly. If you have further questions or need to schedule an appointment, call the specialists at Vista today!