Once the extraction is over, it is extremely crucial that a blood clot forms. This is essential to stop the bleeding and initiate the healing. This is why dentists ask you to bite on a gauze pad for at least thirty to forty five minutes after the extraction. In case there is oozing or bleeding after this time period, place another pad and bite firmly for another half hour. You might have to do this quite a few times until the bleeding stops.
After the clot has formed, make sure you protect it especially over the upcoming twenty four hours. Make sure you do not chew tobacco, smoke, drink alcohol, vigorously rinse your mouth, suck via a straw or clean the teeth which are right next to the area of extractions. Such activities can dislodge the clot and slow down the entire healing process. If the blood clot is dislodged a painful condition called dry socket might occur.
For the twenty four hours after your extraction, don’t go into any rigorous activities. Stick to calm activities as this will keep the blood pressure low, reduce the bleeding and therefore help the healing process.
Once the tooth has been extracted, some swelling and pain is normal. Consider using an ice bag once for twenty minutes and then keep it off for another twenty minutes. Anyway, the swelling will start to subside once forty eight hours have passed. Although you can take recommended pain medication to control discomfort, do not take medication without having eaten first. In case the doctor has asked you to take antibiotics, finish off the entire course even if all the signs of infection and the symptoms have disappeared.
After the extraction, take care of your mouth by eating only nutritious and soft foods. Keep all spicy and hot foods at bay and don’t take in any alcoholic beverages. Once a day has passed you can start eating normally or you can wait till you feel comfortable enough to go back to your usual food routine. Rinse the mouth using warm salt water at least thrice a day. Rinsing with the same solution gently after meals will keep food bits away from the site of extraction.
Once twenty fours have gone by, go back to your normal dental routine – this is important. This has to include activities like brushing the tongue, teeth and flossing at least one to two times a day. This will help to keep your mouth and breath fresh and will also help speed up the healing process. In case you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding or even continued swelling after a few days have passed, contact your dentist right away to get expert medical advice. |
