We understand having your tooth pulled is no one’s idea of a good time. But sometimes tooth extraction is the best course for your dental care.
Rest assured that a tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that is considered low risk. But it is still important to take your aftercare plan seriously. If you want to get back to normal as soon as possible, follow this simple advice on how to feel better fast after a tooth extraction.
Prioritize Your Rest
Having a tooth removed can place significant stress on your body. And doing too much too soon can hinder the healing process.
It is important not to increase blood pressure or heart rate in order to prevent bleeding. Avoid bending over, lifting anything heavy, or any vigorous activity. Prepare to take it easy for several days following your procedure.
Make sure you plan on giving yourself time to rest after your appointment. Take the rest of the day off and only go back to work or school when you feel up to it. Don’t worry; it should not be longer than a day or two before you are able to return to most activities. However, you should avoid exercise for at least 2-3 full days.
Keep the Extraction Site Clean
As with many medical procedures, infection is a concern. When you have a tooth extracted, the area becomes vulnerable to bacteria. An infection is no fun and can slow down healing. It can even become dangerous.
Keeping the site clean is key to preventing infection. Make sure you understand how to clean the area when talking to your dentist.
As a general rule, you should rinse your mouth with a warm salt water solution (or as directed) a few times during the course of the day following treatment. Be gentle, not vigorous, when you rinse. Brush and floss your other teeth normally while being careful to avoid the extraction site.
Medications
Another key step to preventing infection is taking any prescriptions as directed. An antibiotic will likely be recommended, and you should always finish antibiotics to help ensure their effectiveness.
Your doctor may also recommend an over-the-counter pain medication. Take these medications as directed to minimize pain and make sure you can rest up comfortably.
Avoid Drinking From Straws or Smoking
It is important not to create a sucking action in the days following a tooth extraction. Using a straw or smoking a cigarette or vape can cause negative pressure in your mouth. This pressure can dislodge the blood clot that forms to protect your tooth’s socket during healing. A “dry socket” that results can be a cause for concern and can delay healing.
Eat Carefully
You will want to ease into eating by choosing liquids and soft foods in the days following your extraction. Plan for this ahead of time by making sure you have good options on hand. Good nutrition helps your body heal, so you want to have healthy choices available.
Soups or broths (not too hot), smoothies, applesauce, yogurt, and eggs are good options to consider. Stay away from anything hard or chewy for a few days.
Call Us With Any Concerns
If you experience worsening pain that doesn’t improve with medications, excessive bleeding, pus, or a high fever, contact our office. Of course, feel free to reach out with any questions before or after your tooth extraction.
Remember you are recovering from a significant dental procedure, and you should take care of yourself. Be gentle with your mouth to heal as quickly as possible, and you will be back to your regular routine in no time.
