Whyte Avenue Dental Clinic: Aftercare Guide to Tooth Extractions
Tooth extraction may be indicated due to many reasons, which could range from a decaying tooth, preparation for orthodontic treatment, or removal of wisdom teeth. As important as the procedure may be, aftercare is equally important if recovery is to take its course with the least pain and infection possible.
To ensure a proper course of healing, follow these important care instructions :
Immediate Care After Extraction
- Apply Pressure: Bite down on the gauze pad placed over the extraction site for 45-60 minutes. If necessary, change the gauze until the bleeding subsides.
- Rest and Elevate: Rest with your head elevated above the level of your heart and avoid strenuous activities to minimize bleeding and swelling.
- Salt Water Rinse: After 48 hours, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water every 1-2 hours. Avoid using mouthwash that contains alcohol.
- Oral Hygiene: Lightly brush around the surgical site, without touching the sutures. Do not touch the wound.
- Swelling Management: Apply an ice pack to the involved area for the first 36 hours, in intervals of 15 minutes on/ 15 minutes off.
- Medication Instructions: Pain medication or antibiotics may be taken as directed. If you develop itching or swelling, please contact our office.
- Soft Foods: Continue to eat soft, protein-rich foods for the next few days and drink plenty of fluids but do not use straws for the next 5-7 days.
- No Smoking: Do not smoke for at least 3-4 days to minimize the danger of dry socket and infection.
Post-Surgery Care and Follow Up
Healing takes approximately 3 to 14 days. The resorbable sutures will fall out on their own whereas the non-resorbable sutures require a follow-up visit to remove them. The socket will gradually fill in with bone and smooth out over time.
Possible Complications
- Bleeding: Some oozing is to be expected for the first 36 hours. If bleeding continues, apply damp gauze or a moistened tea bag to the area and bite down for 30 minutes. Avoid heavy exercise, as this can exacerbate bleeding. If bleeding lasts longer than 48 hours, please contact us.
- Bone Fragments: Sharp bone fragments, or bone sequestra, can sometimes occur during healing. If you detect any sharp pieces, please contact our office for removal.
- Dry Socket: Pain appearing to intensify after a few days following surgery may be indicative of a dry socket. This is caused when the formed blood clot has been dislodged, exposing the nerve underneath. If you suspect that you have a dry socket, please contact us to schedule a time so we can treat you.
- Lightheadedness: Dizziness can be a result of low blood sugar because you didn’t eat before your surgery. If you’re experiencing lightheadedness, stand up slowly and have something soft and sweet to eat.
- Numbness: Numbness around the site of extraction may last for 10-12 hours. This is normal but should wear off gradually.
- Swelling: Apply ice packs for the first 36 hours. After that, apply moist heat to help reduce swelling. It may take up to 10 days for the swelling to subside.
- Jaw Soreness (Trismus): Stiffness and difficulty opening your mouth may occur. This is usually self-limiting and improves within a few days.