Tooth Extraction: Aftercare and Recovery Tips
Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure. Severe decay, infections, impacted wisdom teeth, or overcrowding are some of the reasons a tooth extraction may be recommended. While the procedure may seem intimidating, proper aftercare and recovery can make the process smoother and more comfortable.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- 1. Use a gauze pad to control bleeding for at least 30 minutes after surgery. You can also use a damp black tea bag to help form a blood clot.
- 2. Avoid spitting, rinsing, or blowing your nose for the first 24 hours.
- 3. Eat soft foods and avoid hot, hard, or crunchy foods for the initial recovery period.
- 4. Do not smoke or drink alcohol for at least 48 hours.
- 5. Avoid strenuous exercise for a few days.
- 6. After the first day, incorporate warm saltwater rinses into your oral care routine.
- 7. Expect discomfort, sensitivity, swelling, and mild pain after surgery.
- 8. Use cold packs, elevate your head while sleeping, and consider over-the-counter pain relievers as needed. Follow prescribed medications and medical advice.
- 9. Reach out if you experience severe or persistent pain, bleeding, or swelling after a few days.
Immediately Following Surgery
A gauze pad will be placed over the extraction site and this should remain in place for at least 30 minutes. Replace the gauze as needed until the bleeding stops. Applying gentle pressure to the gauze pad by biting down can help stop the bleeding and aid in the formation of a blood clot.
Tip: If bleeding is not controlled with the gauze, soak a regular black (caffeinated) tea bag in hot water for a couple of minutes and allow it to cool. Gently squeeze it and then place the damp tea bag over the extraction site. Bite down gently for 15-30 minutes.
How to Avoid Dislodging the Blood Clot
Do not spit, rinse your mouth or blow your nose for the first 24 hours as these actions can dislodge the blood clot which is necessary for the healing process. Instead, using a tissue, gently wipe away any saliva and blood that may drip.
Avoid drinking through a straw for the first 48 hours as this action creates a suction that may dislodge the clot; increase the risk of bleeding and developing a complication known as a dry socket.
Plan your meals carefully for the first few days. It’s best to stick to soft foods like soups, yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, puddings and cooked vegetables.
Do not eat hot foods and drinks for the first 24 hours after surgery.
Do not eat hard or crunchy foods such as nuts, popcorn, or anything that requires extensive chewing. This could exert undue pressure on the healing area and compromise the healing process.
Drinking alcohol and smoking should be avoided for at least 48 hours after surgery as it can interfere with the healing process.
Refrain from strenuous exercise for a few days to minimize the risk of bleeding and to give your body a chance to heal.
After the first day of surgery, you can incorporate warm salt water rinses into your oral care routine, as they may help keep your mouth clean. Simply mix half a teaspoon of salt into one cup of warm (not hot) water for the rinse.
Manage discomfort
After your procedure, you may experience some discomfort, sensitivity, swelling and mild pain. These are totally normal and expected. For some patients, it may take a few days for this to subside.
To manage these symptoms you can apply a cold pack to the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time and consider elevating your head while sleeping. Take over-the counter pain relievers if necessary. You may be prescribed additional medications, so make sure to follow the instructions and any personalized medical advice carefully.
Reach out if you have concerns
Though rare, sometimes complications can arise. If you find yourself experiencing severe pain, bleeding, or swelling persistently after a few days, please reach out to our office for guidance.
By following these best practices for post-operative care and with careful planning, you’ll be well on your way to a smooth and speedy recovery!