Undergoing a tooth extraction can be stressful. Dentists do everything they can to save natural teeth, but sometimes, removing the tooth is the way to restore oral health and prevent complications. After the procedure, the dentist will provide instructions regarding aftercare to ensure quick and proper healing.
After tooth extraction, patients do not exactly need to be bedridden, but what they want to avoid is overexerting the extraction area. It is important to take it easy, especially in the first 24 hours. This means avoiding any unnecessary bending and stooping and staying off exercises.
Whenever possible, the head should be held in an upright position, including when sleeping as this helps to aid quick recovery. The more intensive the procedure is, the longer the resting period should be. Resting gives the body a chance to heal properly, so patients must take advantage of that.
The dentist will send the patient home after tooth extraction with gauze to cover the surgery site. They will need to bite on the gauze and hold it in place until a clot form in the area for healing. The gauze will need to replaced every three to four hours until the bleeding stops.
Any strenuous activity or exercise might break the clot and open the wound again. Although exercising is good for the body and the health, it is necessary to take a break from that routine during the healing process. Resuming exercising prematurely can increase pain and bleeding. It may have a reverse consequence and disrupt healing. It may cause dry sock, a condition in which the blood clot dislodges, exposing the nerves and bone to bacteria and food particles, causing an infection.
After a full day of rest, patients can resume with low impact activities. Stretching, yoga or lifting light weights are good ways to start. If pressure or pain occurs, it is advisable to stop quickly. Pain is the body’s way of showing that healing is not complete yet. Avoid pushing too hard. After about five days, patients can lift heavier weights, but they must avoid clenching their teeth.
After the blood clot has formed, the following simple precautions can help keep it intact and prevent other issues during the healing process:
After about two weeks, patients need usually need to revisit the dentist for a checkup. At the appointment, they will check the tooth extraction area to ensure healing is progressing correctly. Healing is different for each patient, so be sure to follow the recommendations of the dental professional. Rest adequately and treat the mouth gently.
Request an appointment here: https://belladental.us or call Bella Dental Center at (818) 350-8133 for an appointment in our North Hills office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Tooth Extraction in North Hills, CA.
Even if we do not like it, there is a reason our general dentist recommends routine visits at least every six months. In fact, there are several important reasons why we should get into the habit of going to the dentist for regular visits as often as is necessary or as is told. The visits…
Clenching and grinding the teeth, also known as bruxism, can wear them down and cause jaw and ear pain. General dentists can help patients with bruxism avoid pain and discomfort. This blog will review the causes, symptoms, and treatments for teeth grinding.It is common for people to be unaware they clench or grind their teeth…
Bonding is a key element in cosmetic dentistry. The dentist will use it in various processes to restore your smile and improve your appearance. You should first speak to your dentist to see whether you are a good candidate for a cosmetic procedure. You can then discuss how bonding works and what the results will…
Maintaining good oral health is essential to a healthy lifestyle. Regular visits to a general dentist are crucial in preventing and treating different dental issues. General dentists provide a wide range of services, such as preventive care, restorative treatments, and oral health education. However, if you are new to an area or are changing dentists,…