If you are a dentist, you can share these tips with your patients by telling them verbally/handing them a print out of this article/ simply sharing the browser link with them. If you are a patient, please continue reading!
Tooth extraction can be a common and necessary procedure for a variety of reasons. Whether it's due to tooth decay, gum disease, or a damaged tooth, extractions can be an important part of maintaining oral health. But what happens after the extraction? How can you take care of their teeth and mouth to ensure a smooth and successful recovery?
In this article, we'll go over 10 dental care tips post extraction to help you get back on track and feeling great about your smile.
10 Post Extraction Dental Care Tips
1. Follow your dentist's instructions.
It's important to follow the specific instructions provided by your dentist after an extraction. These instructions may include things like taking prescribed medication, avoiding certain foods or drinks, and properly caring for the extraction site. By following these instructions, patients can help ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
2. Keep the extraction site clean.
After an extraction, it's important to keep the extraction site clean to prevent infection and promote healing. This can be done by gently rinsing the mouth with warm salt water several times a day and using a clean cotton swab or gauze to remove any debris or food particles. –
3. Take it easy.
It's better to take it easy after an extraction, especially in the first 24 to 48 hours. This may mean avoiding strenuous physical activity, lifting heavy objects, or participating in contact sports. By taking it easy, you help reduce the risk of bleeding and allow the extraction site to heal properly.
4. Avoid smoking & alcohol consumption
Smoking & alcohol can slow the healing process after an extraction and increase the risk of complications. It's best for patients to avoid smoking for at least 24 hours after the procedure, and ideally longer if possible.
5. Eat a soft and non spicy diet.
It's important for patients to eat a soft diet after an extraction, at least for the first few days. This may include foods like yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, smoothies, dalia, upma, khichdi, kheer etc. Avoiding hard, crunchy, or chewy foods can help reduce the risk of bleeding and allow the extraction site to heal properly. Spicy foods may irritate the wound and are best avoided.
6. Use an ice pack.
Applying an ice pack to the cheek near the extraction site can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Patients should apply the ice pack intermittently and not continuously, for 10-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, and wrap it in a towel or cloth to avoid damaging the skin.
7. Take prescribed medication.
If you have been prescribed medication after their extraction, it's important for you to take it as directed. This may include pain medication to help manage discomfort, as well as antibiotics to prevent infection.
8. Avoid drinking through a straw.
Sucking through a straw can cause suction in the mouth, which can disrupt the blood clot at the extraction site and increase the risk of bleeding. It's important for patients to avoid drinking through a straw for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
9. Use a mouthrinse.
Using a mouthrinse that contains an antimicrobial agent can help kill bacteria and reduce the risk of infection after an extraction. Patients should follow the instructions provided by their dentist for how and when to use the mouthrinse.
10. The anaesthesia will wear off.
You may feel numb but note that this effect will usually last only for an hour or so. Avoid biting your lips or cheeks in this time as it may hurt later. Incase you are still feeling numb after a few hours, please contact your dentist.
By following these 10 dental care tips, your patients can help ensure a smooth and successful recovery after an extraction. Encourage them to take an active role in their own care and follow the instructions provided by an expert dentist like you to get back on track and feeling great about their smile.
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