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How to Recover Effectively from an Extracted Tooth 

How to Recover Effectively from an Extracted Tooth 

Whether you need your wisdom teeth removed or have a tooth that’s damaged or badly decayed, you may feel a bit nervous about your extraction appointment. 

Don’t worry! Tooth extraction is a common procedure, and by following the tips here, you reduce the likelihood of complications as you heal. 

At Oral & Facial Surgery of Mississippi in Flowood, Mississippi, Dr. Michael Nichols tries to ensure that his patients’ natural teeth remain functional for life. However, that’s not always possible.

If you need a tooth removed, Dr. Nichols and his team want you to enjoy a full recovery as soon as possible. 

Before your tooth extraction

Before having a tooth pulled, you may need to stop taking certain medications. You may need to take antibiotics. Dr. Nichols discusses your medical history with you before your procedure, so tell him if you have: 

During your evaluation, Dr. Nichols also provides instructions regarding eating and drinking before your procedure and other important information. 

After your extraction

Once your tooth or teeth are removed, we want to alleviate your discomfort and reduce the risk of complications so you heal quickly. Our team provides you with written instructions and information about medications you may need. 

Here are some general tips:

Stop the bleeding

A priority is to encourage a blood clot to form in the socket left by the extracted tooth. You can do this by firmly biting down on a gauze pad. If the pad becomes saturated with blood, get a fresh one. It may take 3-4 hours for the bleeding to stop. 

Reduce swelling

Apply ice to help keep swelling down. We suggest icing the area for 10 minutes at a time. 

Rest

You must rest after your extraction. For the first 24-48 hours, limit your activities. That helps the blood clot stay intact. 

Manage the pain

Icing the affected area should help with pain, but you may also need medication. If we prescribe pain medication, take it as directed. Over-the-counter options like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help. 

Do not …

To encourage healing, avoid for at least 24 hours: 

Resume hygiene

After 24 hours, rinse your mouth with salt water. Use half a teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and gently rinse. 

Then, you can resume brushing twice a day and flossing once, but do so carefully. Avoid the socket left by the extracted tooth. 

Good dental hygiene lowers your risk of infection. 

Consider a tooth replacement

Unless your extraction involved your wisdom teeth or a case of overcrowding, consider tooth replacement. Gaps between teeth can cause other teeth to shift, changing your bite (which can damage your other teeth) and leading to bone loss over time. 

Dr. Nichols can discuss your tooth replacement options and make a suggestion based on your situation. 

Schedule an appointment at Oral & Facial Surgery of Mississippi today to learn more about promoting recovery following a tooth extraction. 

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