When a tooth extraction occurs, the post-operative period may raise some questions and concerns from patients. However, there is no cause for major alarm; there is just a set of care to keep in mind for a full recovery.
Read carefully, as lack of diligence in the post-operative period can lead to problems such as swelling, bleeding, and infections. Better to prevent than to remedy, isn’t it?
Care to take after extraction for better healing
After the surgery, it is certain that your dentist will indicate a list of care and recommendations to follow in order to recover as quickly and painlessly as possible. However, we may not always remember everything, so we have organized a small list to accompany you whenever you need.
After the surgical intervention, apply pressure with a sterile compress for about 30 minutes, and whenever you feel bleeding, do so for 15 minutes;
During the first 3 days and whenever possible, place a bag of ice wrapped in a towel on the side of your face corresponding to the surgical area for regular intervals of 15 minutes with breaks of 10 minutes;
Avoid rinsing, spitting, or making suction movements in the first 24 post-surgical hours;
The day after the surgery, you should rinse with mouthwash and massage the gum with the surgical brush and appropriate gel twice a day, in the morning and at night. It is natural for cleaning the surgical wound to cause some pain and slight bleeding during the first few days;
Do not touch the operated area with your finger, tongue, or any object;
Sleep with your head in a higher position than your body (with a high pillow or with two pillows) to reduce swelling;
For the first 3 days, eat cold and soft foods. Gradually introduce harder and warmer foods while avoiding hard and crunchy foods throughout the process;
Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages and smoking;
During the post-operative period (7-10 days), you should not exercise or engage in any activity that requires you to bend down;
Avoid sun exposure as much as possible;
Follow the medication protocol recommended by your dentist;
A few days after the tooth extraction, you will likely need to visit the clinic for an assessment of the healing state and/or removal of stitches (if applicable). Remember that the recovery process depends not only on the intervention but also on you.
What to eat after tooth extraction
You may have heard that after a tooth extraction, you are entitled to eat as much ice cream as you want. However, you need to be careful with your diet, in addition to consuming this sweet treat. It is clear that ice cream is allowed, but you should not overindulge due to its high sugar levels.
In the first 24 hours, prefer liquid and cold foods, such as cold soups or smoothies.
Avoid hot drinks and foods, gradually opting for a warm temperature;
According to the National Library of Medicine of the United States, using a straw right after tooth extraction can increase the risk of developing Dry Socket (occurs when the blood clot does not form or is accidentally removed or displaced), due to the suction motion. Avoid using it;
Do not eat hard foods, as they require intense chewing (biscuits, toast, nuts, cereals, bread, etc.);
More acidic and heavily spiced foods should also be avoided;
Chew on the opposite side from where the tooth was extracted;
After the meal, do not forget to maintain oral hygiene, always in a careful manner.
How long does it take to heal?
In truth, each case is different. The healing process and time can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure, whether there are stitches to be removed, and finally, the location and position of the tooth. However, in general, it can be said that the extraction is healed within 7 to 10 days at the level of soft tissues, and complete healing occurs after 2 months.
Don’t be worried if there is still a hole where the tooth was after a few weeks, as it will close slowly and the area will certainly be filled. If you have any doubts, you can always contact your dentist.
What to do in case of tooth pain after extraction?
Tooth pain after an extraction is very common in the first 24 hours, but once again, it can vary from person to person. Pain relief or anti-inflammatory medications, such as Ibuprofen or Paracetamol, are usually prescribed, which effectively reduce the pain, but should always be taken according to each dentist's recommendations. Remember that if you strictly follow the list of previously mentioned care, you can also prevent unwanted pain. Take care of yourself!
Although the approach in Dentistry is increasingly conservative, meaning the priority is always to keep the tooth, this is not always possible, and the reality is that tooth extractions are one of the common procedures in daily clinical practice. It is rare to encounter serious complications during the recovery process, as long as you follow all the care. However, if you feel very intense pain, fever, or if bleeding persists, do not hesitate to consult your doctor.
If in your case the extraction of a tooth is indicated, MALO CLINIC has a team with exclusive practice in Oral Surgery, who will accompany you from start to finish, always ensuring your comfort and safety.
