It’s only natural to be nervous before your first tooth extraction, but it’s a simple procedure. The dental industry has been perfecting the process for decades and visiting your dentist to have a tooth pulled is now an easy, quick, and relatively painless procedure. Andrea M Bertotto DDS is the trusted family dentist of Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. She has shared some of her expertise on the topic to help you feel more comfortable heading into the procedure.

Your Guide to a Tooth Extraction Recovery

What to Expect

In most cases, recovery takes a two to three days. Your dentist will give you gauze pads to help reduce bleeding in the extraction site, and there may be some swelling. It will take some time for the anesthesia to wear off, and depending on the type used, your dentist can explain to you what to expect. You may be prescribed some painkillers or your surgeon will provide instructions on which over-the-counter medication to take during your recovery.

What to Do

Taking the right aftercare steps during your recovery can help speed healing, avoid infection at the extraction site, and prevent any unnecessary pain. Plan to limit your activity in the next two to three days following the extraction, and take time off work if possible. Keep gentle pressure on the gauze pads in your mouth and swap them out if they become soaked with blood and saliva. You’ll want to maintain the gauze in your mouth for about four hours after the procedure.

When you get home, sit or lay down, but keep your head elevated by propping it up with pillows. This will help slow the bleeding in your mouth. Ice the area for ten minutes at a time, with 20 to 30 minutes’ break between the icing to reduce swelling. Avoid drinking from a straw, forcefully spitting, eating hard foods or smoking for at least 24 hours afterward as any of these actions can prevent the extraction site from healing and could introduce infection.

When you need professional dental care in a comfortable environment, you can trust Andrea M Bertotto DDS to give you the best experience. She provides complete services for your oral health and confidence, from teeth whitening to tooth extraction. Meet the team online and call (715) 423-7160 to schedule an appointment.