Proper care is essential after a tooth extraction. Slight bleeding is normal, but avoid rinsing or using warm water for the first 24 hours. Eat soft foods, and abstain from smoking and alcohol. Take medication prescribed by the doctor for pain or swelling, and do not brush or floss directly on the wound. Drink plenty of water and follow-up is necessary.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare Tips: Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure in which a tooth is removed from the mouth, including its root. It is done for decay, infection, broken or weakened teeth, and sometimes for orthodontic treatment. Dr. Anmol Aggarwal, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at Yashoda Hospital, explains that proper care after tooth extraction helps the wound heal quickly and reduces the chance of infection or pain. While slight bleeding is normal during this time, it is extremely important to avoid gargling, hot food, smoking, and alcohol.
Types of Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction is mainly of two types. The first is a simple extraction, in which the tooth is easily visible and in a normal position. The second is a surgical extraction, in which the tooth is impacted or stuck in the mouth and requires minor surgical intervention.
There are also many benefits to tooth extraction. It reduces oral infection and pain. Decayed or weakened teeth can also affect surrounding teeth. By removing them, the overall health of the mouth can be improved. In addition, tooth extraction is necessary to create space in orthodontic treatment.
However, there are some risks involved. These may include infection, prolonged bleeding, swelling, pain, and sometimes nerve or root injury. Therefore, doctor's advice and proper care are extremely important.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Dr. Anmol Aggarwal, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at Yashoda Hospital, explains that proper care helps the wound heal quickly. Slight bleeding is normal after tooth extraction. It is helpful to keep cotton pressed on the area during this time. Avoid rinsing or gargling with warm water for the first 24 hours.
Pay attention to your diet as well. Eat soft and light foods instead of spicy or hot foods. Stay away from smoking and alcohol as they can affect the wound.
Use only the pain relievers suggested by the doctor for pain or swelling. Do not brush or floss directly on the wound. Gradually start normal tooth brushing and mouth rinses. Following the doctor's instructions is very important during this time.
Necessary Precautions After Tooth Extraction
It is also important to keep a few more things in mind after tooth extraction. Drink plenty of water. Avoid sour or spicy foods. If there is excessive bleeding from the wound, contact the doctor immediately.
Be sure to follow-up at the time specified by the doctor. Consult a specialist immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms or severe pain.
What to Do After Tooth Extraction
- Press cotton on slight bleeding.
- Avoid warm water or gargling for the first 24 hours.
- Eat soft and light foods.
- Abstain from smoking and alcohol.
- Take only the doctor's medicine for pain or swelling.
- Do not brush or floss on the wound.
- Drink plenty of water and avoid sour or spicy foods.
- Contact the doctor immediately if there is excessive bleeding.
- Follow-up on time.
Recovery Time
The recovery time after a simple extraction is relatively short. On the other hand, the wound may take a little longer to heal after a surgical extraction. Generally, swelling and pain subside in 3 to 7 days. With proper care and dentist's advice, the wound heals quickly and the risk of infection remains minimal.
