Do you need a tooth extraction, or did you recently get one? Whatever the case, it’s imperative to take care of your oral health to promote proper healing. For that, here are a few tips to help you recover from tooth extraction.

Fill in Your Prescription

Fill in your prescription immediately and start taking the medication as soon as possible. It will help you stay on top of your game as you heal and relieve discomfort. Don’t miss doses. Wake up in the middle of the night if you need to. It will help you heal without any complications.

 

Allow the Clot to Form

After the extraction, the dentist will place gauze at the extraction point to help form a blood clot. Leave the first gauze for about three or four hours as the dentist instructs. When the clot forms, you can change it as necessary. Failure to do this will dislodge the clot and result in a dry socket, which can be painful.

Do Not Use a Straw

Using a straw requires suction which can dislodge the blood clot and expose your jawbone. It causes a dry socket. Instead, use a spoon or drink from a glass or cup.

Don’t Spit or Rinse

Also, don’t spit or rinse your mouth for 24 hours to avoid dislodging the blood clot. After 24 hours, you can rinse using warm salty water. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Gently swish it in your mouth and spit. Be gentle to avoid dislodging the clot.

 

Don’t Smoke

Smoking slows down the healing process, and the process of inhalation may suction the clot out of place. Try and avoid it for the entire healing period.

Rest and Elevate Your Head

Rest is crucial after tooth extraction. Take 24 hours away from your daily activities and limit your activity for the next couple of days. It helps the body recover and initiates the healing process. When sleeping, elevate your head. Blood will pool in the head if you lie flat. The pooling of blood prolongs the healing process.

Take Pain Relievers

Sometimes, the dentist may give you antibiotics to fight infection. However, you may encounter pain and inflammation. Over-the-counter pain relievers will reduce and allow you to get some rest and sleep.

Do You Need to Blow Your Nose?

Be careful if the extraction is in the upper part of your mouth. Blowing your nose or sneezing creates pressure in your head that may dislodge the blood clot. Hence, do not blow your nose or sneeze if possible.

Gently Brush Your Teeth

There is no need to brush your teeth during the first day or two after surgery. However, you will need to keep up with your oral health routine. When you do, use a soft or medium bristle brush and be gentle. Brush everywhere apart from the site of the extraction. Give the area time to heal. Avoid it also to prevent disruption of the healing process.

For more information on recovering from tooth extraction, contact Riverview Dental at our Corunna, Michigan office. Call (989) 743-4851 to book an appointment today.