Teeth extraction involve completely removing a tooth from the mouth. People may require tooth extraction for many reasons, ranging from tooth decay to crowded teeth.
When are teeth extraction recommended?
Healthcare providers prefer to save natural teeth whenever possible. But sometimes, other restorative methods — such as dental fillings or dental crowns — aren’t enough. If your tooth has been badly damaged past the point of repair, then removal may be necessary. Your dentist may recommend teeth extraction if you have the following:
- Severe tooth decay.
- A fractured tooth.
- An impacted tooth.
- Crowded teeth.
- Severe gum disease.
- Tooth luxation or other dental injuries.
Aftercare Tips For Teeth Extraction
After teeth extraction, it’s essential to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your dentist to ensure proper healing and avoid complications. Here are some general guidelines for the aftercare process:
- Bleeding control: After the teeth extraction, bite on the gauze pad provided by the dentist for 30 to 45 minutes or until the bleeding stops. If bleeding continues, place a moist tea bag on the extraction site and bite down gently for another 30 minutes.
- Pain management: You may experience some pain or discomfort after the extraction, but over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve the symptoms. Avoid aspirin as it can increase bleeding.
- Swelling: To reduce swelling, place an ice pack on the cheek over the extraction site for 20 minutes at a time, with 20-minute breaks in between. Do this for the first 6 to 8 hours after the extraction.
- Rest: After the extraction, avoid physical activity for the rest of the day and take it easy for the next 24 to 48 hours. This helps to reduce bleeding and minimize swelling.
- Rinsing: Do not rinse your mouth or spit for the first 24 hours after the extraction as this can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing. After 24 hours, rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup) several times a day to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection.
- Eating and drinking: Avoid hot liquids and solid food for the first 24 hours after the extraction. After that, consume soft foods such as yoghurt, pudding, and soup. Gradually return to a normal diet as you feel comfortable, but avoid using the extraction site for chewing.
- Smoking: Avoid smoking for at least 72 hours after the extraction as it can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
- Brushing and flossing: Continue to brush and floss your teeth, but avoid the extraction site for the first 24 hours. After that, gently brush the area with a soft-bristled brush.
- Avoid alcohol and straws: Avoid drinking alcohol and using straws for the first 72 hours after the extraction, as the sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
- Dental appointments: If a stitch was placed during the extraction, your dentist would schedule a follow-up appointment to remove it. Attend all follow-up appointments as recommended by your dentist to ensure proper healing and check for any potential complications.
In conclusion, following the aftercare instructions provided by your dentist is crucial for proper healing after teeth extraction. If you experience severe pain, swelling, or bleeding that doesn’t subside, or if you develop a fever, contact your dentist as soon as possible.
If you need teeth extraction, the professtional dental team at Hi-Tech Family Dentistry can help. Our experienced dentists use the latest comfortable, painless dental technology and provide detailed aftercare instructions to help you recover faster. Call our practice today to schedule your appointment to get our advice. Contact us now!
