After tooth extraction, there are some important ways you can help the healing process proceed smoothly and uneventfully. You can reduce painful swelling and prevent infections if you take a few precautions.
Steps to Ensure an Optimal Healing Process
Here is a list of ways you can optimize your post-operative care so that you can return comfort and beauty to your smile as quickly as possible.
- Bleeding can be stopped by firmly placing a gauze pad over the dental socket and avoiding physical activity for 24 hours after surgery. If bleeding continues, try using a tea bag as the tannic acid can constrict blood vessels and stop bleeding. If bleeding continues, contact your doctor.
- Swelling and bruising are normal and may not appear for 2 to 3 days. You can reduce swelling and minimize bruising by applying a cold compress on the jaw area for the first two days after surgery. Some swelling and jaw stiffness is normal and can persist for several days.
- Pain medications such as IV sedation and oral narcotics may cause nausea and vomiting. If you feel nauseous, limit your intake to ice chips and beverages such as tea or ginger ale. Do not use straws as the sucking can disturb the healing process. Also, you should not drive or use heavy machinery for the first 48 hours. Pain should subside after a couple of days.
- Maintain oral hygiene during healing by gently brushing your teeth and rinsing your mouth five to six times. Add a teaspoon of salt to warm water, which can prevent infection and keep your mouth moist.
Excellent Post-Operative Care for Dental Extractions
King of Prussia Periodontics & Dental Implants provides gentle care to patients during and after dental extractions. We provide follow-up care to make certain you are healing properly and comfortably. When you are facing oral surgery, give our trusted team a call.