Post-Extraction Care Instructions

After Extraction information: Essential Care Tips for a Speedy Recovery

If you've recently had a tooth extraction at Selandra Dental, it's important to follow these post-extraction care guidelines to ensure proper healing and avoid any complications that may arise. By taking care of your mouth in the days following the procedure, you can promote faster recovery, minimize discomfort, and reduce the risk of infection. Always remember not all extractions are the same as some extractions may require surgical removal of bone and or tooth division. We all heal at different rates and some of us have more complex health issues (e.g. Diabetes) that may make you take longer to heal.

  1. Rest and Take It Easy

After your tooth extraction, rest is crucial. For the first 24 hours, avoid strenuous activities and take it easy. Elevate your head while resting to help reduce bleeding and swelling. Resting will allow your body to focus on healing the extraction site. Swimming should be avoided for a minimum of a week so the extraction site can have time to heal.

  1. Control Bleeding with Sterile Gauze

Immediately after your extraction, you may experience some bleeding. Use the sterilized gauze provided by Selandra Dental to apply gentle constant pressure to the extraction site for 20 mins (you can swallow as normal, so the gauze doesn’t collect your saliva). Change the gauze as needed until bleeding slows down and stops. This helps the blood clot form properly.

  1. Avoid Hot Foods, Hot or Acholic Drinks, and Smoking

For the first 24 hours, avoid hot foods and beverages as they can increase blood flow to the extraction site and cause discomfort. Alcohol and smoking should also be avoided, as they can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications such as dry socket. If you feel the extraction site is becoming more painful from day 3 please call Selandra Dental immediately!

  1. Keep the Blood Clot in Place: No Rinsing for 24 Hours

The blood clot that forms in the extraction site is essential for healing. Do not rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours after the extraction to prevent dislodging the blood clot. After this period, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water 2-3 times a day for the next two days to keep the area clean and promote healing.

  1. Pain Management After Tooth Extraction

Some discomfort is common following a tooth extraction, but it can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief medications like Ibuprofen and Panadol. Avoid aspirin, as it can increase bleeding. If pain persists or becomes severe, or if you experience other symptoms like swelling or fever, contact Selandra Dental immediately, as this may indicate an infection.

  1. Eat Soft Foods for the First Few Days

After your extraction, stick to soft foods that won't irritate the extraction site. Foods like soups, smoothies, ice-cream, mashed potatoes, and yogurt are great choices. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the extraction occurred. Remember to have cold foods for the first 24hrs

  1. Swelling and Ice Therapy

Swelling is a normal part of the recovery process after a tooth extraction. Apply an ice pack wrapped in a clean cloth to the outside of your face for 15-minute intervals to help reduce swelling and discomfort. This is most effective during the first 24-48 hours after the procedure.

  1. Keep the Area Clean

To maintain oral hygiene while the extraction site heals, brush your teeth gently. Avoid brushing directly over the extraction site until it has healed. After 24 hours, resume your normal oral hygiene routine but be cautious around the extraction site.

  1. Follow Post-Extraction Medication Instructions

Not all patients require strong pain medications.

If your dentist has prescribed pain medication or antibiotics, be sure to follow the instructions as directed to manage pain and prevent infection. If you have any questions about your prescriptions, don’t hesitate to contact Selandra Dental or your pharmacist.

Potential Complications

While most dental extractions are straightforward, potential complications can arise, including:

  • Dry Socket: This occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site dislodges or dissolves prematurely, exposing the bone and nerves. It can cause severe pain and delay healing. This is very common in smokers so we do ask smoker to reframe from smocking for 48 hours.
  • Infection: Signs of infection include fever, increased pain, swelling, and discharge from the extraction site. Prompt medical attention is necessary.
  • Nerve Injury: In rare cases, nerve injury can occur, leading to numbness or tingling in the lips, tongue, or chin, (note that it is not uncommon to feel this after your extraction for a week due to swelling, once the swelling resides the feeling should go back to normal). If you do feel lack of sensation, please inform our friendly staff at Selandra Dental.

 

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  1. When to Contact Selandra Dental

If you experience any of the following symptoms after your tooth extraction or you have any questions or concerns please contact Selandra Dental right away:

  • Excessive bleeding that doesn't stop after applying pressure
  • Severe or worsening pain
  • Signs of infection such as fever or unusual swelling
  • Bad smell or taste
  • Any other unusual concerns or symptoms

Conclusion

Following these post-extraction care instructions will help ensure your recovery is as smooth possible. At Selandra Dental, we are committed to your comfort and healing. If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery, don’t hesitate to contact us. As your recovery is our priority