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Trips to the dentist range from quick and easy to challenging and occasionally painful. While it’s not always an option to avoid a tooth extraction, there are certain steps you can take at home to minimize discomfort and make the recovery process simpler.

It’s essential to make sure you follow your dentist’s post-op instructions in order to heal successfully. Here are some helpful tips to follow at home:

  • Pagosa Springs, CO tooth extractionKeep It Clean: Depending on the reason for extraction, your dentist will advise a method to keep the socket clean. The number one goal is to prevent it from experiencing further irritation. In most cases, you will likely be advised to gently rinse the area 24 hours after the procedure, usually with salt water. Do this regularly after every meal to ensure that food particles do not get lodged in the space. Remember that being gentle is the key—even vigorous swishing can disrupt the area and cause an infection.
  • Be Gentle: You need to eat, speak, and brush your teeth, but all of these activities will change in the aftermath of a tooth extraction. Again, be gentle. Chew on the opposite side of your mouth, and stick with soft foods that won’t irritate the area. Avoid aggressively brushing the area, and drinking through a straw.  Take a cue from your dentist regarding how to best clean the socket. 
  • Irrigate It: In some cases, your wound may be extremely deep. Your dentist might provide you with an irrigation tool to flush the area regularly. This is the only way to effectively dislodge debris and prevent a possible infection from developing.
  • Pay Attention to Your Body: It’s important to listen to your body. If you develop any new pain that doesn’t subside or lessen with medication, experience prolonged bleeding, or have swelling that doesn’t go away, it’s best to get in touch with your dentist. Remember that pain and swelling are common after a tooth extraction, but anything that lingers or feels worse over time is worth a visit. 

 

King Campbell DDS is the leading dentist in Pagosa Springs, CO. Dr. Campbell offers a comprehensive range of services, including tooth extraction and replacement, root canals, and cosmetic dentistry. They also offer deep cleaning, dentures, and whitening service. Visit their website to learn more, or call (970) 731-2126 to schedule an appointment.

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