How to Quickly Recover from Your Springfield Tooth Extraction
By: kyjean | Friday, November 15th, 2013 | Springfield Dental Practice, Tooth Extraction
Friday, November 15th, 2013
Here at our Virginia dental practice, tooth extractions could range from being a surgical procedure to a more complex type of surgery. The former is applied when the tooth is still visible in the mouth and the extraction will only require minimal equipment such as forceps and an elevator. On the other hand, the latter is required when the teeth in question cannot be easily accessed because they have not fully erupted or they are fractured under the gum line.
The key to quickly recovering from your tooth extraction is to allow the blood clot to form to help cover the extraction site. Here are a few tips to how to promote such quick and safe healing!
- Take it easy following extraction. Avoid bending and heavy lifting for the first 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. Exercises may be postpone as well.
- Do not wait for pain to set in. Take pain relievers as prescribed. This applies as well to antibiotics if you have been prescribed with it.
- Numbness is normal for the first few hours following extraction yet if you still feel numb after 6 hours post-procedure, it is best to contact your dentist right away. Although the effects of the anesthesia may have been extended, it is best to let your oral surgeon know about it.
- Avoid rinsing vigorously or drinking through a straw for the first 24 hours. After this initial period, you can rinse at least 3 to 4 times a day with a combination of salt and warm water to rid your teeth of food debris.
- Brushing should be done once the swelling has subsided. When brushing, be careful not to brush near the extraction to avoid dislodging the blood clot.
- Stick to a liquid or soft food diet during the first 24 to 48 hours.
Do you still have questions about tooth extractions here in our Springfield clinic? For a free no-obligation consultation, call us at (703) 750-9404 or fill out this contact form. We look forward to helping you achieve a naturally beautiful smile!
