At some point, you may find you need a tooth extraction. Teeth need to come out for various reasons, whether it is severely decayed, broken, or suffers trauma. A tooth extraction is a straightforward procedure but can be intimidating. Fortunately, a tooth extraction is not painful during the procedure, and any discomfort afterward is minimal. Still, you need to take some care of yourself right after your extraction to prevent pain and facilitate proper healing. Here are some tips to help you heal after a tooth extraction:

Give Yourself Some Time

One thing you can do to make sure you heal properly after a tooth extraction is to rest. You should try to avoid any strenuous activity at least within the first day after a tooth extraction. Physical activity increases your blood pressure. It can also cause increased blood flow throughout your body, including in your mouth. You need to reduce blood to the area as much as possible so a blood clot can form where the tooth was removed. The blood clot is necessary to help fill in the area and prevent additional blood loss.

Make Sure Your Bleeding is Under Control

After an extraction, you should expect some temporary bleeding. The dentist will leave some gauze in your mouth at the extraction site. You will bite down on the gauze throughout the day to help provide pressure to the extraction site. You may need to exchange the gauze a few times within the first few hours after the extraction. As time passes, the bleeding should decrease. If you soak through the gauze for hours or even days after your extraction, you need to contact your dentist right away, as excessive bleeding is abnormal and may require further care.

Follow the Dentist's Orders

Before you leave the dentist's office, they will provide you with some care instructions to ensure you properly heal. To help facilitate the formation of the blood clot in the space from the extracted tooth, you should not suck on a straw or anything else. This can dislodge the clot. You also should apply cold compresses to your cheek on the side where the tooth extraction took place. In addition, be sure to only eat soft foods for the first day or so after your extraction, and do not chew on the side of your mouth where the tooth extraction occurred. If you follow the instructions from your dentist, your healing should go well and allow you to resume your normal activity rather quickly.

Share