Recovering from a Tooth Extraction

Wondering how important tooth extraction recovery is after having one or more teeth extracted from your mouth? Recovery is an essential part of successful extraction. Whether you already know that you need to have a tooth extracted or you simply think you do, understanding what is involved throughout the entire process is necessary. Preparing for the extraction, undergoing the extraction, recovering from the extraction — every single aspect of the process is important.

Why a tooth extraction is necessary

Finding out why tooth extraction is necessary may help you prevent further extractions. One of the more common reasons is because a tooth is so damaged due to dental decay that it can no longer be saved. Another common reason is to prevent overcrowding, which means there is not enough room in the mouth to accommodate all teeth. A third common reason is that a wisdom tooth is trying to grow in and has become impacted, which can lead to an infection.

Recovering from a tooth extraction

The following list includes instructions that will help any dental patient recover from having one or more of their teeth extracted from their mouth.

The first 24 hours

The gauze placed over the extraction area needs to be kept in place until the bleeding has stopped, which should take somewhere in between 30 and 60 minutes. Patients need to be very careful when providing themselves with oral care, as it is essential not to disturb the area during this first 24 hours. No straws should be used and no hard or spicy foods should be eaten. Patients need to rest, use ice packs to reduce any swelling and take pain medication as needed.

The next two to three days

During the next two to three days, patients still need to be careful to not disturb the area. A soft-food diet is recommended during this time, as the patient will still experience some swelling and overall soreness. It is recommended to gently rinse the mouth with salt water, as this helps to reduce any swelling and soothe sore gums.

Seven to 10 days after

If the patient received any stitches during their extraction, the stitches can now be removed. Any swelling, stiffness or soreness should now be gone. Since it can take up to four weeks for someone to fully heal from the extraction procedure, patients should keep an eye on the area to ensure that it is healing exactly as it is supposed to.

Need a tooth extracted?

Are you currently in need of a tooth extraction? If one or more of your teeth are so damaged that they are no longer able to function properly, then extraction is necessary. It is essential that you take proper care of yourself by following all recovery instructions, as this ensures a successful healing. Remember, once you lose one of your teeth, even to extraction, you will need to choose a tooth replacement option as soon as possible.

Request an appointment here: https://www.sacramentosleepdentist.com or call Dental Excellence of Greenhaven at (916) 293-0504 for an appointment in our Sacramento office.

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