Going to the dentist: post-tooth extraction care

Recovery from a tooth extraction will most likely only take a couple of days, but there are some instructions that will reduce the risk of postoperative problems (such as a so-called dry socket) and can help on the road to recovery.

Forever follow your dentist’s instructions To avoid minor or even serious problems, so: Be a good patient and pay attention to your dentist.

Here are some of the dos and don’ts for your aftercare process:

• Bite down hard on the wet cotton gauze that the dentist placed on the extraction wound for 30 to 45 minutes to help a solid blood clot form. At home, a wet tea bag can serve as a replacement. If bleeding continues, contact your dentist.
• While the mouth is still numb from the local anesthetic, be very careful not to bite or burn your lip, the inside of your cheeks, or your tongue.
• Do not touch the wound with your fingers so as not to infect the wound with bacteria that may be on your hands.
• Do not rub the wound with your tongue or suck on the tooth socket, this can release the blood clot.
• Try to relax after the extraction. Lie down, but put a pillow under your head, as lying down can prolong bleeding.
• Use an ice pack on the outside of the cheek in the extraction area for the first 24 hours to keep swelling to a minimum. Some patients find it pleasant to melt an ice cube in their mouth to cool the inside as well.

Most importantly, do not smoke or drink alcohol for at least 24 hours after the procedure. Nicotine can break down the blood clot and cause a wound healing disorder such as the painful “dry socket”, while alcohol consumption will thin the blood and therefore may increase the chance of bleeding. Even if you follow all the tips, problems may still occur. Feel free to contact your dentist if you have a lot of pain or bleeding.