If you are in need of tooth extractions, you may naturally have some questions as to the aftereffects and potential risks associated with the procedure. Read this guide for suggestions on how to avoid complications afterwards.
The time period of recovery for tooth extractions is generally only a few days. Patients should be sure to comply with all instructions given by the dentist and clear schedules for the next day or two. Do not put too much stress on the body during this time.
Since patients are under anesthetics during the procedure, a family member or friend needs to pick them up and make sure instructions are followed. Once home, gauze can be rolled up and placed at the extraction site so that a clot can form. This should be changed out routinely. Ice packs can be applied to curb swelling. Brush teeth and floss as normal, but be sure to circumvent the extraction site.
For the first day after surgery, patients should limit their diet to soft foods, such as soup, meal replacement shakes or yogurt. Avoid drinking from straws and forceful spitting during this time as well. Gradually add heavier foods over the next few days until the site has healed satisfactorily.
It is of the utmost importance to follow the prescription for painkillers and antibiotics. Taking too many painkillers can lead to addiction, and taking antibiotics off schedule or stopping prematurely can leave the extraction site vulnerable to infection.
If the blood clot that forms at the extraction site fails to heal correctly, it could result in alveolar osteitis, i.e., a dry socket. Dry sockets can potentially set recovery time back weeks.
Under normal circumstances, blood clots develop to protect the wound at the extraction site while it heals. Dry sockets occur when these blood clots do not form correctly or break off too early, thus leaving the wound exposed. Most cases of dry sockets occur in the week following tooth extractions, and common causes stem from smoking, birth control pills or premature removal of gauze.
The healthcare professional performing the tooth extraction will have instructions to follow to prevent any complications. Follow these instructions, and also avoid the following during recovery:
Dry sockets can be detected from the extreme, prolonged pain they can cause. If any signs of infection should occur, consult a doctor immediately.
Experiencing or caring for someone undergoing tooth extractions can seem stressful at first, but there are ways to take some of that pressure off. Taking the proper precautions and following dentists’ orders can help facilitate the recovery process and prevent any serious complications. Be sure to ask questions and make preparations beforehand to ensure the safety and comfort of the patient.
Are you considering tooth extractions in the Trophy Club area? Get more information at https://trophysmilestudio.com.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
When you are new to wearing dentures, you have many questions involving your denture care. Some people who wear dentures and do not have any natural teeth left believe they no longer need to see their dentist regularly like they used to. For many reasons, making sure you still see your dentist for regular appointments…
Wondering whether a cracked tooth can be saved by a dentist? Read on to find out. If a cracked tooth is damaged beyond what can be repaired, then a dentist may recommend having the tooth extracted and replaced with a fixed dental bridge, partial denture, or implant-supported dental crown.The methods used to treat a cracked…
Denture care is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, but few people know the best way to care for their teeth. Denture hygiene is just as important as brushing and flossing your natural teeth! What are dentures? How do dentures work? What types of dentures are there? How do I clean them? Who can…
When you don't provide the proper denture care for your dentures, you can get a bad case of denture odor. Odors are not only unpleasant to you but also unpleasant for those around you. It may have an effect on your eating habits and oral health as well. It's not unusual for dentures to start…
When you are new to wearing dentures, you have many questions involving your denture care.…
Wondering whether a cracked tooth can be saved by a dentist? Read on to find…
Denture care is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, but few people know the…
When you don't provide the proper denture care for your dentures, you can get a…
Denture care is one of the most essential steps in preventing gum disease. Gum disease…
To understand what makes a good Invisalign® dentist, you first need to know what this…