What Should I Avoid After a Tooth Extraction?
Dental extractions are performed after the administration of a sedative and anesthetic. Therefore, you will not experience discomfort during the procedure. However, once they wear off, you will experience pain and discomfort. Read on to learn about tooth extractions in Redding, CA, and what to avoid afterwards.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Dentists only recommend extracting a tooth when there are no options to repair or restore it. This may occur if the tooth becomes infected, decayed, or damaged beyond repair. Then, they will remove the tooth to eliminate the symptoms.
The dentist will extract a tooth if it is impacted or unable to erupt above the gum line. For example, a tooth may become impacted when it grows sideways instead of upwards. It must be extracted because it may result in jaw pain, overcrowding, decay, or gum infections.
Extractions in 96001 are necessary for orthodontic treatment where the teeth are overcrowded. Removing a tooth or two allows the other teeth to move and realign properly. The orthodontist will ensure the rest of the teeth occupy the gap created for a perfect smile.
Untreated gum disease can lead to the deterioration of the supporting structures of the teeth. As a result, your teeth become loose and have gaps between them. The dentist will extract the teeth to allow the gums to heal and the tissues to regenerate. Tooth extraction may also be necessary if baby teeth do not fall out in time to let permanent teeth come in.
The Tooth Extraction Procedure
There are two types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical extraction. The extraction procedure varies depending on if your tooth is visible above the gum line. A simple extraction is straightforward and fast. It is performed if a significant portion of the tooth is above the gum line. The dentist can grasp and remove the tooth from its alveolar socket.
A surgical extraction is more complicated and invasive. First, the dentist near you performing the treatment will cut into the gums to access the tooth. Next, they will remove the surrounding bone and section the tooth into easily removed pieces. The dentist will then extract the tooth carefully and suture the gums.
Both types of extractions are performed after the dentist administers anesthesia and sedative. The anesthetic numbs the tooth and surrounding tissues preventing pain during the procedure. Sedation helps ease dental anxiety enabling you to relax or sleep during the extraction. Therefore, you will not experience any pain, discomfort, or fear.
What Should I Avoid After Extraction?
After the dentist extracts a tooth or several, they will instruct you on what to do and avoid. For example, they will request that you rest for faster recuperation. They will also guide you on letting the extraction site clot and avoiding dislodging it.
In addition, the dentist will advise you on using ice packs to minimize swelling and pain. They will request that you take all medications as prescribed for faster and uncomplicated recovery. Finally, the dental expert will advise you on diet and oral hygiene during recovery.
Similarly, there are several things you should avoid after dental extractions in 96001. Some are highlighted below.
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products after tooth extraction. The chemicals in tobacco increase the risks of a dry socket and inhibit healing. If you must smoke, wait for at least 48 hours after the procedure.
- Avoid drinking alcohol or carbonated drinks for at least four days after the dentist extracts your tooth. These can interfere with the blood clot in the socket leading to complications. Also, avoid hot drinks or using a drinking straw.
- Avoid crunchy, chewy, hard, hot, or spicy foods for 24 hours after tooth extraction. They can irritate the extraction site or remove the blood clot impeding the recovery. Instead, eat soft, room-temperature foods.
- Don’t touch or poke around the tooth extraction site with your finger, tongue, or toothpick. Doing so will destroy the clot leading to increased bleeding and dry socket condition.
Are you considering the tooth extraction process and are worried about the recovery? Then contact our dental team at Riverbend Family Dental. We use up-to-date techniques and experience to make the process as comfortable as possible for all patients. In addition, our team will guide you through recovery to ensure you heal fast without complications.