You might have undergone a tooth extraction for damage, decay, or another reason. Your dentist only pulls your tooth out when necessary, but there is more to do after extraction. When you are going through the period of tooth extraction healing, there are a few do’s and don’ts to remember. We will tell you what you should do and avoid following your tooth extraction.
What Should a Tooth Extraction Look Like When Healing?
Firstly, you should know if your tooth extraction site is healing normally. When your tooth extraction site is healing, it should look deep red with granulation tissues developing gradually. This is what normal healing after tooth extraction looks like:
- Blood clot forms on day one or the first night after tooth extraction.
- Granulation tissue starts forming (the white stuff at the extraction site)
- Bone formation takes around eight weeks
If the creamy white tissue starts forming, it is a sign of a healthy tooth extraction recovery. But if you experience the following issues, tell your dentist immediately — they can be indicators of infection or unhealthy tooth extraction recovery:
- High fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Foul taste in your mouth
- Bad breath
- Dry socket (visible bone on extraction site, blood clot got dislodged)
- After 2-3 days of the procedure, pain, bleeding, and swelling worsen.
- White or yellow pus discharge from the extraction site.
Tooth Extraction Healing: The Dos & Don’ts
There are certain dos and don’ts to observe after your tooth extraction to ensure a speedy healing process. Your dentist will give you a few important instructions to follow after your surgery. You should abide by their instructions during your tooth extraction healing time for a healthy recovery. These are the guidelines you should adhere to:
- Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in water, and rinse your mouth with the solution. Or you can use an antibacterial mouthwash. After swirling the mouth rinse or saltwater solution in your mouth, don’t spit it out forcefully since it can dislocate the blood clot.
- Keep the brush and floss away from the extraction site, but continue cleaning the rest of the teeth gently. Be careful while brushing the tooth adjacent to the socket.
- Take your pain-relievers and antibiotic prescriptions regularly if your dentist has suggested them. Follow your dentist’s instructions and take them as they have directed.
- Don’t participate in strenuous activities, as they can increase the post-operated bleeding and discomfort.
- Don’t eat hard and crunchy food in the initial days. Switch to soft foods instead.
- To avoid moving your blood clot, don’t use straws or anything that includes suction.
What to Keep in Mind?
You should pay attention to caring for your tooth extraction healing site. Thus, visit your dentist for checkups and treatments if you think it looks unhealthy or feel pain, discomfort, and any of the symptoms mentioned above. Stick to your tooth extraction aftercare to avoid any issues or complications. Our dental experts at Waller Dental General & Cosmetic Dentistry can help you in case of any oral health problems. Don’t hesitate to dial at 936-372-2673 or leave a mail at info@wallerdental.com. You can also visit our website to book an appointment.