4 Tips To Keep In Mind For Quick Recovery After Tooth Extraction
Dentists choose extraction as the last treatment option for a severely damaged, decayed, or impacted tooth. Tooth removal might also help if you have overcrowded teeth before returning to the dental clinic for braces. Whichever the case, tooth extraction is a relatively simple procedure that takes a short time to recover. So, how do you avoid complications after the procedure? The following are aftercare tips to help you heal after tooth removal.
1. Adhere to the Prescribed Medicine
Your dentist will likely administer local anesthesia to numb the target site. However, it will wear off gradually after tooth extraction. Therefore, you might experience some pain or discomfort at the extraction site. Take your medication as prescribed by the specialist. The discomfort should subside within a few hours.
If the pain persists, this could signal a developing infection or dry socket. Consider visiting a dentist to review the problem and help you treat the infection as soon as possible. You can also take any antibiotics prescribed to avoid complications.
2. Don't Strain Yourself
Take some time to recover by resting and avoiding physical activities. Therefore, this would be a good time to ask for some time off work. Keep your head elevated for a day or two, and get up slowly to prevent dizziness. Resting is likely to help you recover quickly.
3. Use Ice Packs
It is normal to experience swelling after a tooth removal procedure. However, you can use ice packs to manage pain and swelling around your face. Excessive swelling may hinder healing and extend your recovery period. The ice pack slows blood flow around the affected area, reducing swelling. It also numbs underlying nerves to alleviate pain. If swelling persists, consider reporting the problem to your dentist since this might be a sign of a developing infection.
4. Don't Smoke or Use Straws
Taking beverages using straws or smoking increases pressure in your oral cavity. As the removal site heals, clots may form on the socket to prevent infections and bleeding. The pressure created might displace the clot on the socket, causing pain, bleeding, and exposing the gum tissues. Therefore, you should avoid these habits until the site heals. Smoking inhibits healing, which could prolong your recovery period.
You should strive to adhere to your dentist's instructions after tooth removal. The dentist's tips can help you have a smooth and fast recovery. If you always fear tooth extraction due to the recovery process, you can now schedule an appointment for the procedure.