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Jan 24, 2025
Tooth extraction is an invasive dental procedure carried out when there is no way possible to save the natural tooth. A completely damaged or broken tooth must be removed from the socket to alleviate the pain and eliminate harmful bacteria in the mouth. It helps maintain a healthy smile and optimum oral hygiene. Oral surgeons or periodontists perform the extraction because of the intensive nature of the surgery. Sometimes extraction becomes complex when the crown is broken, and the tooth cannot be easily pulled out.
Extraction involves an incision in the gum tissue and may require the removal of some part of the bone. Dentists in Hope Island ensure the comfort of the patient by sedating them with the help of intravenous sedation or happy gas inhalation through a nosepiece. The complex cases require the administration of general anaesthesia. After the removal, the socket is disinfected and stitched for healing. Bleeding, swelling and soreness are common after the procedure, and aftercare is necessary to avoid infection. Here is everything you must know about speeding up healing after tooth extraction. It can help recover quickly and stay healthy.
1. Hold the Gauze in Place
After the damaged or broken tooth is removed and the socket is disinfected, the dentist will cover it with gauze to stop bleeding. The patient must bite down on the gauze with pressure to prevent it from moving or dislodging from the socket. The gauze should be kept in the mouth if the bleeding continues. If it gets completely soaked, use a clean cotton ball to replace it carefully with clean hands. Do not touch the socket with your fingers or try to feel it with your tongue, as it can remove the clot and lead to bleeding.
2. Use A Cold Compress
It is normal to experience swelling after the extraction, and it can stay for 2-3 days. Patients can drink water after 2-3 hours to stay hydrated and reduce swelling after the gauze has been removed and the blood has stopped oozing. However, make sure not to use a straw. The water should be at room temperature and neither too hot nor cold. In addition, they must use a cold compress over the swollen cheek during the first 24 hours. It allows the blood vessels to contract and reduce swelling. The cold compress must be held on the cheek for 20 minutes and then removed for 10 minutes to be placed back again.
3. Take Rest and Avoid Rinsing
Resting after tooth extraction is mandatory. It helps to recover from the pain and allows the wound to heal faster by ensuring the blood clot is not disturbed. It decreases the risk of excessive bleeding and brings down swelling. Usually, the person starts feeling well after 2-3 days of the procedure. According to expert Hope Island dentists, patients must avoid exercise and heavy lifting during this period. They should also keep their head elevated while lying down and sleeping and take complete mental and physical rest. They should not rinse the mouth for 24 hours.
4. Consume a Soft Diet
Chewing can impact the treated area and lead to bleeding. Thus, individuals must consume a soft or liquid diet that does not put pressure on the teeth. The diet should not have any ingredients that can irritate the wound, such as spices, chillies or high sugar. Slight chewing, if needed, should be done from the other side of the mouth to avoid contact of the food with the wound. Meals include applesauce, yogurt, soups, pureed boiled vegetables, etc. It should not be hot and consumed after 2-3 hours.
5. Stay Away from Alcohol and Smoking
Healing is better when the person recovering avoids alcohol and smoking for a week. It can affect the wound and reduce the ability of the body to fight infection. Dentists in Hope Island suggest avoiding mouthwash because most of it contains alcohol, which can irritate the wound and even open it. Water should also be sipped in small quantities to prevent the clot from dissolving due to water swishing in the mouth.
6. Brush and Floss Carefully
Brushing and flossing can be resumed 24 hours after the extraction. It is crucial to avoid the wound while brushing and flossing. Usually, a dental implant in the socket takes place after 2-3 months to allow the bone to heal completely. During this period, keeping the wound untouched but clean is vital to avoid infection. If the clot is loosened from the socket, it can lead to a dry socket condition, which is painful. Thus, the socket must be cleaned with salt-water rinses after 24 hours of the extraction.
7. Take Prescribed Medicines
Hope Island dentists, experts in oral surgery, prescribe medications after extracting wisdom teeth or damaged ones to reduce pain, swelling and the risk of infection. These include antibiotics and pain relievers. They must be taken as per the prescription to avoid any mistakes.
Wrapping Up
Tooth extraction causes pain, swelling and bleeding. It requires proper aftercare to ensure the patient heals quickly. Thus, individuals undergoing the treatment must listen to their practitioner’s advice and follow the tips above to maintain optimum oral health.
