How to Care for Your Gums during Tooth Extractions

You did it! You had your tooth extracted and you are here to tell the tale! Now it wasn’t nearly as bad as you thought right? Most people think having a tooth pulled is the scariest thing in the world, but once you’ve had a tooth pulled, you realize it’s really not that bad.

And it’s not that damaging either! Most dentists will put you through a process of extraction and grafting, where bone is added into the cavity to replace the missing tooth, and maintain the structure of your mouth.

However, if you had a wisdom tooth removed, you won’t need any bone grafting. So, you’ve dealt with the extraction process, the next question is, how do you take care of your gums and teeth after the extraction?

 

A List of Things to Do Right Away! 

 

The following tips will lessen the discomfort, reduce the risk of infection, and contribute to speedy recovery.

 

  • The use of painkillers is applicable only when prescribed
  • Reduce the bleeding by biting firmly but gently on the gauze pad, while allowing clot to form in the tooth socket
  • Apply an ice bag to the area of extraction right after the procedure so that the swelling will reduce. You can use this for 10 minutes at a time.
  • Avoid spitting forcefully or rinsing for 24 hours after your tooth has been extracted to avoid dislodging the clot forming in the socket
  • After one day, rinse your mouth using a solution made of ½ teaspoon salt with 8 ounces of warm water
  • Do not drink liquid from a straw for the first 24 hours
  • Healing can be inhibited when you smoke, so try to avoid it.
  • Consume soft foods only one day after the extraction. You may add solid foods to your diet as the area heals
  • Brush your teeth and tongue, and floss your teeth. Just make sure to avoid the extraction area to prevent infection.

 

You might experience some swelling during the healing process, which is of course normal. But if swelling becomes excessive and if you experience fever or severe pain, you need to contact your dentist right away.

 

Flossing, Brushing, Mouthwash

 

After a tooth extraction, you will have to follow a specific cleaning routine temporarily to maintain the health of the cavity and also your overall health of you mouth. Most dentist will recommend you avoid brushing near the extraction point. You can brush around it, but try not to irritate the wound directly.

 

You are also asked to avoid mouth wash until the wound is fully healed. This is because the suction caused by gargling mouth wash could break your stitches and cause dry socket.

 

Follow the instructions given to you by your dentist to the letter.

 

The Use Of Medication For Pain

 

It is recommended that you take your pain medication before the numbness from the local anesthetic wears off. And the antibiotic treatment must be taken until it has finally healed. You also need to take over-the-counter probiotic if you are taking antibiotics.

If you experience lightheadedness as a reaction to pain medications, you need to lie down until it subsides. Some medications can also cause upset stomach, so you need to take it with some food to minimize the side effect.

 

Sonal

I am an author at DoTricky for the past 1 years. I like to share information and knowledge. I love expressing my thoughts through my articles. Writing is my passion. I love to write about travel, tech, health, fashion, food, education, etc. In my free time, I like to read and research. My readings and research help me to share the information through my thoughts.

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