Post-Operative Instructions: Dental Extraction

Tooth extraction is done to remove impacted or decayed teeth. However, after the procedure, it is crucial to follow the post-operative instructions given by the dentist.

Post-operative instructions are instructions that are given to the patient after the extraction of a tooth. They are important because they can reduce post-operative complications and make it easier for you to resume your daily activities.

The instructions will vary depending on the type of extraction performed on the tooth. For example, if a tooth was impacted, then more care is needed to ensure that it heals properly without any complications.

What is Tooth Extraction Recovery?

Tooth extraction recovery time varies and is dependent on what type of bone was used to fill in the space created by removing the teeth.

While the healing process takes a long time to complete, many patients are encouraged to eat soft foods immediately after their surgery. The typical recovery period lasts about two weeks.

It is important to note that not everyone heals at the same rate, so it is possible for someone’s recovery period to last longer or shorter than this average, depending on how their body processes things differently than others. What you do during the recovery time will also determine the length of the recovery.

What precautions should I Take After Tooth Extraction?

It is important to take the necessary precautions when recovering from a tooth extraction. The following is a list of things that you should and not do after surgery:

• It is usual for your gums to bleed for the first few days after surgery. This is because the blood clot that formed at the site of surgery might loosen.
• Avoid strenuous activity or exercise. Try to get plenty of rest, eat balanced meals, and drink liquids to keep your mouth moist.
• Don’t smoke for at least 24 hours after surgery, which means no smoking of any kind. Nicotine can cause complications with your healing time and decrease the health of your gums, leaving you more susceptible to infections. It will also irritate your stitches or sutures.
• Try to avoid blowing your nose or coughing for at least 24 hours after surgery. These activities can cause your stitches or sutures to become prematurely dislodged.
• Do not rinse right after surgery since this can prematurely dislodge your sutures. Rinsing should only be done under the specific instructions given by your dentist in Phoenix, AZ, or oral surgeon.
• If you experience any bleeding or signs of infection (i.e., fever, chills, or swollen lymph nodes) after surgery, contact your dentist as soon as possible.
• If you have an emergency with your extraction after regular office hours, go to the nearest emergency room.
• After surgery, you will experience some tenderness and swelling at the site of your extraction. You can take pain medications but do not exceed the recommended dosage.
• Use warm salt water3 times a day to help reduce the risk of infection and speed healing. Use this mixture: ½ tbs salt dissolved in 8 ounces of warm water.
• If you had a local anesthetic, your face might be numb for a few hours or even days after surgery. This is normal and not serious.
• Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol while you are healing because these can slow down the healing process.
• If your stitches come out prematurely, do not re-insert them. They will fall out on their own, but call our office if they do not come out after several days.

Is There Anything Else I Should Avoid After Teeth Pulling?

After having a tooth removed, there are a few things that you should avoid doing to avoid future complications. Avoid hard foods. If you chew on something hard, it can cause the blood clot not to heal. You also want to avoid eating any hot or cold food because it can irritate your mouth and gums.

Contact our dentist for assistance if you experience pain, fever, swelling, excessive bleeding, or trouble breathing after surgery.

You also need to maintain good dental hygiene to prevent bacteria and plaques from forming.

How Soon Can I Have a Cigarette After Tooth Extraction?

It might be challenging for a regular smoker to quit smoking temporarily. Following oral surgery, including extraction treatments, a dentist would recommend that you refrain from using tobacco for at least 72 hours or three days. Cigarette smoke includes poisonous chemicals that may harm your gum and mouth tissues during healing. Smoking can lead to complications, like dry socket, inflammation, or infection.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit On Pointe Dentistry for more information about tooth extraction post-recovery instructions.