Proper care after tooth removal, also known as tooth extraction, is crucial to ensure a smooth and uncomplicated healing process. Whether you’ve had a wisdom tooth extraction, a simple tooth extraction, or a surgical extraction, here is a detailed guide on how to care for your mouth after the procedure:
Immediate Post-Extraction Care (First 24 Hours):
- Bite Gauze and Rest: Immediately after the extraction, your dentist or oral surgeon will place a piece of sterile gauze over the extraction site and ask you to bite down gently. This helps control bleeding and encourages the formation of a blood clot. Keep the gauze in place for about 45 minutes, and if necessary, replace it with fresh gauze if it becomes soaked with blood.
- Avoid Disturbing the Blood Clot: It’s essential to avoid activities that can dislodge the blood clot from the extraction site, as this can lead to a painful condition called dry socket. Avoid vigorous rinsing, spitting, sucking through a straw, or touching the extraction site with your fingers or tongue.
- Manage Pain: Follow your dentist’s or oral surgeon’s instructions for pain management. You may be prescribed pain medication or advised to take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. Take these medications as directed.
- Icing: Applying an ice pack to the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time during the first 24 hours can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
- Soft Diet: Stick to a soft diet for the first day or two, which may include foods like yogurt, pudding, mashed potatoes, and soup. Avoid hot, spicy, and crunchy foods that may irritate the extraction site.
- Gentle Rinsing: On the day of the extraction, avoid vigorous rinsing. After 4 days, you can start gently rinsing your mouth with warm salt water. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in half glass of warm water. Rinse your mouth gently after eating and before bed to keep the area clean. continue this till 8th day then start with Mouthwash and continue till next 10 days.
- Brushing: Continue brushing your teeth as usual but be very gentle around the extraction site. Avoid brushing directly over the blood clot. and spit very gently for next 3 days to avoid bleeding.
- Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and alcohol can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of complications. It’s best to avoid these until you’ve fully healed.
- Watch for Signs of Infection: Pay attention to any signs of infection, such as increasing pain, swelling, redness, or pus at the extraction site. If you suspect an infection, contact your dentist or oral surgeon promptly.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your dentist or oral surgeon to monitor your healing progress and remove any stitches if necessary.
- Resume Normal Diet: Gradually transition back to your normal diet as you feel comfortable. Avoid extremely hard or crunchy foods until your mouth is fully healed.
It’s important to note that the exact care instructions may vary depending on the type of extraction and your individual circumstances. Always follow the specific guidance provided by your dentist or oral surgeon. If you experience severe bleeding, intense pain, persistent swelling, or other concerning symptoms, contact your dental care provider immediately, as these could be signs of complications.