Tooth Extraction Recovery | Tooth Extraction Aftercare Tips

What is a Tooth Extraction?

It is a dental procedure for removing natural teeth from the mouth. Tooth extraction typically preserves general oral health by removing one or more problematic teeth in your mouth. Therefore, you cannot expect your dentist to recommend a tooth removal without worthwhile grounds. Some of the factors that can necessitate tooth removal are:

1. A Crowded Mouth – is an orthodontic problem where the jawbone is insufficient to house all the teeth in your mouth.
2. Problematic wisdom teeth
3. Impacted Teeth – feature teeth that grow improperly, remaining wholly or partially stuck underneath the gums.
4. Severe Tooth Decay – some degrees of dental decay make it impossible to save the tooth through reparative measures like dental fillings or root canal therapy.
5. Periodontitis – is an advanced stage of gum disease that impacts the health of the jaw and gums, compromising the stability of your teeth.

What Should You Expect During a Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extraction procedures differ from one case to another. It depends on the complexity of the tooth. A simple tooth extraction entails rocking a tooth back and forth, loosening it from its socket. However, for stubborn teeth, oral surgery is necessary.

A dentist will cut open the gums, exposing the bone tissue blocking the tooth. It should be easy to access and remove the tooth afterward. However, in some cases, the dentist will need to break the tooth into small pieces for easy extraction. After removing the tooth, your dentist may place a few stitches to aid a quick recovery process.

What Happens After Tooth Extraction?

You will have various changes in your oral cavity after getting a dental extraction near you. The effects should only last a few days. Call our dentist in Kingwood, TX, immediately if you experience the following symptoms longer than 14 days.

1. Swollen and tender gums.
2. Dental pain and soreness.
3. Bleeding or streaks of blood in your saliva.
4. Difficulty speaking properly.

Tips for Caring for Your Mouth After Tooth Extraction

If you can care for your mouth well after a tooth extraction treatment, you will recover within 7 days without any complications. Some aftercare tips to help you started are:

1. Do not Eat Immediately after the Procedure – your mouth will still be numb, which increases the risk of hurting yourself. Wait until the numbing subsides to take your first meal.
2. Keep the Gauze in Place – it helps control bleeding and allows the mouth to form a blood clot on the wound. Your dentist will advise changing the gauze after about 30 minutes to keep the site clean and free of infection.
3. Eat Soft Foods Only – it may be your only meal for the first week after your treatment. However, as you heal, you will be able to integrate other foods into your meals. Ensure you do not skip your meals since your body needs the energy and nutrients to heal quickly.
4. Avoid Smoking and Drinking Alcohol – they slow down your healing and increase the risk of infection.
5. Keep Your Mouth Clean – oral hygiene reduces the risk of infection in your extraction wound. Find a soft-bristled toothbrush that will not be too abrasive for your tender gums. Follow the recommendations we give you at Houston Oral Healthcare Specialists regarding gentle and safe products after tooth extractions.
6. Rest – do not get back to work immediately after your treatment. Take a few days off to rest, allowing your mouth to heal properly. You should be able to resume normal work routines in about 48 or 72 hours, depending on the nature of your work.
7. Take Your Medication – your dentist should prescribe some medicine to manage your pain, ease the swelling and prevent infections.

How Long Does Healing Take?

Patients heal at different rates after tooth extractions. Ideally, after about 7 days, the wound’s surface should have healed well enough. However, you need extra time to heal fully, which might take a few weeks. Do not be alarmed if you still feel some soreness after 14 days post-treatment. It can take longer than that to chew without discomfort in your mouth. Report to your dentist any anomalies like pus, bleeding, or an open wound.

Visit a Dental Clinic Near You

Are you looking for tooth extraction in Kingwood, TX? Call or book an appointment with Houston Oral Healthcare Specialists today!