Share:

Tooth extraction is a common procedure, and your dentist might recommend it to treat a variety of conditions. If you have a tooth extraction scheduled, it’s essential to prepare for your aftercare. The following are some basic tips for caring for your mouth after tooth removal.

Do:

Plan time to rest.

While a simple tooth extraction won’t require as much recovery time as other oral surgeries, you should still rest for at least 24 hours. Take the day off on the day of your appointment and refrain from any strenuous activity during the first few days. You should also keep your head elevated while you rest at home.

Allow the extraction site to clot.

Your dentist will put a piece of gauze in your mouth before you leave the office. Even if it’s uncomfortable, keep the gauze in place and avoid chewing on it. The material will protect the extraction site as it clots. Your dentist may recommend that you change the gauze after 60 minutes, but you’ll likely only need to keep it in your mouth for a couple hours.

Eat hard foods.

You do not need to necessarily stick to soft foods in the days following your extraction. Moving your jaw by chewing may be more helpful in decreasing the swelling and help the healing process.  

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene.

Brush your teeth being careful when brushing the area of extraction as bleeding may result.  Rinse gently as you would normally.  Rinsing with hot salt water on the day after extraction may help keep the area clean.

Don’t:

Skip your medications. 

tooth extractionYou might experience mild discomfort and swelling after the procedure, so take the appropriate measures to keep yourself comfortable. Apply an ice pack to the area in 10-minute intervals and take pain medication as directed. Most over-the-counter pills will help; however, call your dentist if you’re experiencing continuous severe pain, bleeding, or swelling.

Flush out the Socket

You may be tempted to flush out the socket to keep it clean.  However should you wash out the blood clot, you could get a dry socket which is extremely painful.  On a similar note, do not suck thru a straw or smoke as you may suck the clot out of the socket resulting in a dry socket.

 

If you think you need a tooth extraction, contact the skilled team at the office of Lyle C. Yanagihara, DDS, MS in Honolulu, HI. Dr. Yanagihara also specializes in dental implants, jaw surgery, cleft palate repair, and bone grafting. Dedicated to patient satisfaction and quality results, Dr. Yanagihara and his staff continue their education to stay updated on the latest industry techniques and advances. Read more about extraction aftercare online, or call (808) 973-1433 to schedule an appointment.

tracking