At Beach Cities Dental Group, Dr. Haddad is here to help you when you need a tooth extraction. Patients may need a tooth extraction if their wisdom teeth become impacted, or if a permanent tooth becomes severely decayed or damaged. Tooth extraction aftercare is extremely important following your dental procedure. Here are Dr. Haddad’s best tips for taking care of your smile following tooth extraction:
Oral Hygiene First
Keeping the extraction site clean and free from food residue is especially important the first few days following your tooth extraction. On the day of your procedure, you may gently brush your teeth, avoiding disturbing the affected area. The day after your procedure, you may begin practicing your at-home oral hygiene routine, still being gentle around the extraction site. Do not spit for the first 24 hours, and instead hold your mouth open over the sink to release any liquids. For the first few days following your procedure, we also recommend utilizing an at-home salt water rinse, which should consist of 1/2tsp of salt mixed into 1 cup of warm water. Swish this around your mouth following meals to ensure the extraction site remains clean.
Diet Matters
Eating nourishing, softer foods will help your extraction site heal properly. Avoid crunchy or chewy snacks that may irritate the extraction site, or become lodged in the socket. Snacks like potato chips, nut mixes, popcorn, and sunflower seeds should definitely be avoided. Eat only what is comfortable for you to chew and swallow gently. As you heal, you can progress slowly toward incorporating more solid foods. Also, remember to take any prescribed pain medication with a large sum of water and a small snack to avoid side effects like nausea or upset stomach.
Pain Management
Patients may experience various degrees of discomfort after undergoing tooth extraction. Besides pain medication, there are other things you can do to help reduce the risk of pain, swelling or bleeding surrounding the extraction site. Utilize cold packs or ice bags on the outside of your cheek and jaw to minimize swelling. Use gauze as directed by your dentist to manage any post-procedure bleeding. After 48 hours, you may begin to use heating pads instead of cold compresses. Do your best to avoid any heavy lifting or exercising for the first few days to give yourself time to heal.
If you are in need of having your wisdom teeth removed or think you may require a tooth extraction in Oxnard, CA, please contact us to schedule an appointment.