What To Do After Teeth Extractions?

Tooth extraction refers to the process where a tooth is completely removed from its socket in the bone. There are many reasons why a dentist would perform an extraction. 

What Is Tooth Extraction?

When the tooth cannot be saved, your dentist may recommend extracting it. A tooth may be extracted for various reasons, including:

• Severe decay or infection that cannot be treated with root canal treatment
• Impacted wisdom teeth that do not properly align in the jaw
• Orthodontic procedures that require the removal of teeth to make room in the mouth for repositioning of remaining teeth
• Periodontal disease that jeopardizes the health of the surrounding teeth and gums
• Fractured or broken teeth that cannot be repaired with restorative dental treatments
• Malformed teeth that are causing issues for the patient
• Space maintainers for young children who still have adult teeth growing in

Once a tooth is extracted, it is important to replace the missing tooth as soon as possible to prevent future complications from arising. Options to replace missing teeth include dental implants, a dental bridge, a partial denture, and a full denture. Talk to your dentist about which option is best for you.

If you are scheduling an extraction appointment for yourself or your child, be sure to ask the dentist how to prepare for the procedure and what steps to take afterward. Post-surgery instructions may include taking antibiotics, applying ice to the affected area to reduce swelling, eating soft foods, and avoiding strenuous activity for a few days following the procedure. Your dentist may provide you with additional recovery tips specific to your situation and needs.

What Happens After The Procedure - Extraction Aftercare

After your procedure, you’ll experience some soreness and swelling for the first few days. We will prescribe pain medication to help minimize any discomfort. It’s also important to avoid strenuous activity for the first 72 hours following your procedure. However, that doesn’t mean you should sit at home doing nothing. You should avoid eating hard foods while still numbed — take care not to chew on your cheek, tongue, or lip when your mouth is still numb. You should also stick to soft foods like pudding or yogurt and avoid hot beverages like coffee or tea. Avoid smoking for at least 48 hours after surgery. And lastly, be sure to clean your teeth and gums thoroughly to prevent infection.

After your treatment, you’ll most likely be a bit sore. This soreness might increase for a day or two after your procedure and subside after that. Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water and eating soft foods that require minimal chewing to reduce the chance of pain or irritation to your gums. You can also use an ice pack or a cold compress to help soothe your mouth.

If pain persists for several days after your procedure, contact your dentist so they can provide you with something to alleviate your pain until you get in for an appointment. However, this isn’t necessary in most cases.

You’ll also need to practice good oral hygiene following your treatment. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash. Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help prevent infections from developing in the empty socket where your wisdom teeth used to be. Your dentist might also recommend an over-the-counter pain medication to relieve discomfort and pain over the next few days.

Maintaining a clean mouth is an important step in preventing infection and making sure your body heals properly.

For more information on our dental services, schedule an appointment with our dentist at Hallmark Dental Group or visit our dental office in St George at 335 East St George Blvd #201, Saint George, UT 84770.