Tooth extraction involves a painless removal of your tooth or its roots with minimal trauma caused to the surrounding tissue. This allows the extraction socket wound to heal uneventfully and without having postoperative complications. Tooth extraction may need to be performed before you go for other dental procedures, like an implant. If you have decayed or damaged teeth, you can visit Pro Dental Care in Sleepy Hollow and South Elgin, Illinois, to determine if extraction is an option. If you undergo a tooth extraction procedure, you want to follow these care and instructions to ensure the wound heals properly, quickly, and smoothly.
Control bleeding
The wound that is left after tooth extraction will bleed following the tooth removal procedure. You want to ensure that you control the bleeding that follows. So, firmly bite the gauze that your dentist places on the wound. The pressure you create by biting helps blood to clot within the tooth socket. If the bleeding is excessive, you can consider biting on a teabag. Tea contains tannic acid that helps in blood clotting. Ensure that you bite on a gauze or a tea bag until the bleeding stops. You may experience minimal bleeding during the first day, which is normal.
Reduce pain
You want to use medication prescribed by your dentist to help alleviate any pain. Since pain medication can cause drowsiness, you should avoid driving while taking them. Your dentist may also recommend over the counter medications for pain.
Reduce swelling
You may want to use an ice pack placed on the cheek close to the site of tooth extraction. Put ice cubes in a plastic bag and wrap it using a thin towel. Place the ice pack on the cheek for about 10 minutes and then take it away for 5 minutes, then repeat the process. Your face may start to show signs of bruising, which is normal. The bruising will disappear on its own.
Get sufficient rest
Your body is wired to recover when you are resting. You may have some discomfort that could make falling asleep difficult; however, you need to ensure you get adequate sleep. Rest during the day, and make sure you go to bed early. Slightly raise your head when lying down.
Choose your diet wisely
Consider eating a diet consisting of soft, healthy foods or snacks. Drink plenty of fluids. Eating hard foods can injury the socket and prolong the length of healing. Also, consider green, leafy foods, as they help with the healing of wounds. You also want to avoid hot foods and drinks as they can cause bleeding. When rinsing the mouth, do it gently so that you do not dislodge the clotting that forms.
Following these tips will ensure that the tooth socket wound heals fast and you can proceed with the next appointment for your dental treatment plan, like dentures or dental implants. If you have any complications after teeth extraction, call your dentist at Pro Dental Care.