How to Speed Up Recovery after Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is a procedure that involves removing a tooth from its socket. Extractions are performed for a variety of reasons, including severe tooth decay, periodontal disease, tooth damage, and impacted wisdom teeth. Tooth extractions can cause complications such as dry sockets, swelling, and infection.

What to Expect After an Extraction

You may experience some discomfort and swelling after the extraction, but it should subside within a few days. Your dentist will provide detailed instructions for post-extraction care during your consultation, such as how to care for your mouth following surgery, what to eat/avoid eating, when to schedule your follow-up appointment and more. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully to avoid infection or other complications and ensure proper healing.

How to Care For Your Mouth After an Extraction

Immediately after your appointment, you should rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash to kill any remaining bacteria. Take all medications as directed and keep taking any prescription antibiotics until the treatment is complete. You should also keep the affected area clean by brushing and flossing regularly and avoid smoking for at least the first few days of recovery.

When a tooth needs to be pulled, many people wonder what to expect after their procedure. While typical recovery time is only a few days, some patients experience a longer healing period due to the size and location of the tooth that was removed. If you are concerned about the length of the recovery period, here are some tips that you can use to speed up your healing process after your extraction.

• After the tooth is removed, you may experience some swelling or slight bleeding. To control these discomforts, apply an ice pack to your face for the first few hours after the extraction. This can reduce swelling and numb the area.
• After 24 hours, you can switch to a warm compress to encourage circulation and healing.
• After the procedure, you should avoid eating on the side of the mouth where the tooth was pulled. If you must eat on that side, take small bites and use caution to avoid putting too much pressure on your jaw. Avoid drinking through a straw for a few days as well.
• You should avoid smoking for a few days after the procedure. Smoke can have a negative effect on your healing and can also inhibit your ability to heal properly.
• Finally, schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist within a few weeks of the procedure. Your dentist will monitor your recovery and ensure that the socket heals.
• Keeping your body hydrated and well-nourished can help speed up recovery time and minimize side effects. 
• Try to stick to soft foods and avoid anything with seeds or nuts to prevent irritation to your soft tissues. Cold foods like ice cream and yogurt can also help keep your swelling down. 
• Avoid hot foods and drinks like coffee, tea, soda, and soup until your gums have fully healed.

If you want to learn more about ways to take care of oral health, visit 406 Dentistry at 1315 U.S. Hwy 2 W, Kalispell, MT 59901, United States, or call (406) 890-6364 to schedule an appointment.