Having a tooth extracted may seem like a simple procedure, but tooth removals can be complex oral surgeries that require proper aftercare with the help of your dentist. Without the right care, the mouth could develop serious infections or bleeding problems. Here is a brief guide about tooth extraction and what to expect.

3 Tips for Taking Care of an Extracted Tooth Site

1. Take It Easy

After you have a tooth removed, plan to rest for at least 24 hours. Extraction sites may take as long as 7-10 days to heal, so plan accordingly.

To reduce swelling and potential bruising, apply ice packs in 20-minute increments as needed throughout the day. The cold will help to reduce inflammation, improving pain and discomfort. Avoid exercising for a few days after your tooth extraction to avoid worsening bleeding.

2. Consume Soft Foods

For the first 24 hours after an extraction, only consume soft foods, such as pureed soups, yogurt, hummus, and bananas. Do not drink any fluids through a straw, as this action could dislodge protective blood clots within the extraction site.

3. Take Medication as Prescribed

Depending on your case, your dentist may prescribe pain medication, antibiotics, or both to prevent pain and infection. Take the medication exactly as prescribed. If you take medicine too infrequently, you could raise your risk of discomfort and infection. On the other hand, taking antibiotics too frequently could cause diarrhea, and too many prescription pain killers could cause an overdose.

Keep an open line of communication with your dentist and reach out if you don’t feel comfortable taking medication as prescribed. If you have struggled with addiction in the past, tell your dentist so they can offer alternative pain management solutions, such as over-the-counter medicines.

Whether you have to have an extraction because of unchecked decay or overcrowding, turn to Ronald W. Ristow, DDS, in Oconto County, WI. With state-of-the-art technologies, such as intraoral cameras and digital imaging, this dentist can spot dental problems soon and provide proactive solutions. To find out more about how he can help, visit his website or call (920) 846-3163.