Care and Considerations After Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that most people face at some point in their lives. Proper care after tooth extraction accelerates the healing process and prevents complications.
In this article, we will focus on the things to be considered after tooth extraction and tips to facilitate the healing process.
First Hours After Tooth Extraction
After tooth extraction, there are some important points to be considered at the beginning of the healing process:
1. Control Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal after tooth extraction. Place the sterile gauze given by your dentist on the extraction site and bite firmly for about 30-45 minutes to stop the bleeding. If bleeding continues, repeat the procedure using a new gauze swab.
2. Rest: Resting during the first 24 hours is important for your recovery. Avoid physical activity and sleep with your head elevated.
3. Ice Application: Applying ice to the extraction area from the outside reduces swelling and pain. Apply the ice pack for 15 minutes every 15-20 minutes for the first 24 hours.
First 24-48 hours after tooth extraction
First 24-48 Hours After Tooth ExtractionThe first two days after tooth extraction is a critical period in the healing process. During this time it is important to pay attention to the following steps:
1. Pain Management: Use painkillers prescribed by your dentist regularly. If you are taking over-the-counter painkillers, consult your doctor to determine the appropriate dosage.
2. Nutrition: Eat soft and liquid foods in the first few days. Foods such as soups, yoghurt, purees and smoothies are ideal. Avoid hot, spicy and hard foods.
3. Fluid Intake: Drink plenty of water, but avoid using a straw. Drinking through a straw can increase the pressure in the mouth and cause the blood clot to dislodge.
4. Smoking and Alcohol: Do not smoke or drink alcohol for at least 48 hours after tooth extraction. Smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of infection.
5. Oral Hygiene: Avoid brushing your teeth and using mouthwash for the first 24 hours. Afterwards, you can carefully brush your teeth using a soft toothbrush. Gently gargling with salt water also helps to prevent infection.
Long-term Care and Recovery
Long-term care after tooth extraction is also part of the healing process:
1. Stitches: If your dentist has stitched, find out when the stitches should be removed. Some stitches dissolve spontaneously, others have to be removed.
2. Swelling and Bruising: Swelling usually peaks in the first 48 hours and then begins to decrease. Bruising may last for a few days, this is normal. You can continue ice application.
3. Diet: Continue to consume soft and nutritious foods. Avoid hard, crusty and irritating foods for a while longer.
4. Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush and floss your teeth. Clean the extraction site by approaching it gently. You can continue to gargle with salt water.
