Aftercare Tips for Extractions

Extractions aren’t the only dental procedure that leaves your mouth feeling tender. Any dental procedure that requires the removal, or pulling, of a tooth can lead to discomfort. After any dental procedure, it’s important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions. Doing so can help you have a more comfortable recovery. Your dentist will provide specific instructions for aftercare based on your individual needs.

Tooth extractions are sometimes necessary when the teeth are past the point of repair or cannot be saved at all. Once the teeth are removed, it’s very important to follow your aftercare instructions to ensure that your healing goes well and that your teeth don’t move out of place. Here’s what to do after your tooth extraction procedure:

• Take your pain medication as prescribed. This will help reduce any discomfort you feel after your procedure.
• Stick to a soft foods diet for the first couple of days after the procedure. Avoid anything with excessive fiber that could cause irritation, such as raw vegetables.
• Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to keep the extraction site clean. Do this every few hours for the first few days after the appointment.
• Use a cold compress to reduce swelling and soothe the area. Apply it for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off.
• See your dentist again for a checkup in about a week or so to make sure everything is healing properly.
• Avoid drinking from a straw for at least one week following the extraction. This can cause liquids to leak into the empty tooth socket and cause a painful condition called a dry socket.
• Remember to avoid smoking for as long as possible after your surgery. Smoking slows your body’s healing process and can lead to discomfort and longer recovery times.
• Rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution several times a day starting the day after your procedure. The solution can be made by mixing one teaspoon of salt with eight ounces of warm water. Gently swish the solution around in your mouth for about two minutes, then spit it out and rinse your mouth with clean water. Repeat this process every two to three hours until the bleeding stops. Saltwater rinses provide natural antibacterial properties that help clean the affected area and prevent infection.
• When brushing your teeth, be gentle around the affected area. Brush gently but thoroughly using soft bristles and a toothbrush that reaches all areas easily. Try to stay away from the surgical site for the first couple of days after the procedure.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that the healing process goes smoothly and that you don’t have any complications with your extraction site. 

Please visit our dental practice at 551 E. Plaza Circle STE. C, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340, to schedule a consultation with our dentists. You can also call us at (623) 935-1155 or book your appointment online.