Virginia Beach Dentist Learn to Care for a Tooth after an Extraction

If you have had a recent tooth pulled, it is no secret that it could be tender and very painful since it to those extracted from your mouth. However, much of the success that you experience after your extraction will have to do with the way that you care for your tooth, which will prevent any potential infection or issues in your mouth. After you have had a tooth extracted, it is common to experience some swelling, pain, and bleeding for several days. By taking care and medication for your extraction, you will reduce many of these common side effects and help you to return to your daily routine much quicker than you may think.

It is important that you take nonprescription and prescription medications that your dentist has giving you. If your dentist gives you an antibiotic, and it is essential to take it to stop any infection in the area of extraction. If you are a woman who takes birth control, please remember that taking penicillin could negate your birth control during this time. After you have had your tooth extracted, take care to relax when you are at home. Any type of extreme activity or exercise could cause more bleeding in the area of extraction. It is essential to take a load off to avoid disturbing this fresh wound in your mouth.

You can keep your mouth clean by rinsing with warm water and a tablespoon of salt. Rinse your mouth with this mixture a few times each day. The salt water mixture will stop swelling and reduce potential bleeding if you use this for the first few days after your extraction. You must continue to brush your tongue and teeth even after you have had a tooth pulled, but make sure to brush in a very soft manner in the area of extraction.

If your face is very swollen, make sure to use an ice pack to stop the swelling. The bleeding and swelling should go away several days after you have visited the dentist. It is also essential not to rub, or it will irritate the area of extraction with your tongue. This can create the spread of bacteria to cause infection in the mouth. You can anticipate your extraction to get better completely within one to two weeks. When you are reclining after your extraction, make sure not to lie completely flat because this could produce even more bleeding. It is best to prop up your upper torso with a pillow when you are sleeping to help the bleeding subside. As you return to eating normal foods, make sure to stay away from eating hard foods until the extraction area has healed completely. It is best to eat soft foods and liquids, like Jell-O, pudding, and soup.

It is recommended not to smoke to benefit your health overall, but it is especially dangerous to have this habit after a tooth extraction. This could cause long-term bacteria and infection so avoid smoking completely!