Healing After Tooth Extraction

Following your tooth extraction spring hill florida procedure, there are several things you can do to help facilitate the healing process. It is normal to experience some swelling and mild discomfort following a tooth extraction once the effects of the anesthetic have worn off. One of the easiest ways to reduce discomfort as well as minimize risk of infection is to avoid disturbing the surgical area as much as possible, making a point of chewing on the other side of your mouth and avoiding foods that are crunchy or hard. We recommend following a soft food diet for at least three to five days, after which you can begin to reintroduce other foods, but should do so carefully. It is common to have some sensitivity to foods or beverages that are hot or cold, but this should go away after a few days.

Pain following a tooth extraction is usually mild enough that OTC medication is adequate, however pain medication may be prescribed if necessary. If pain medication is prescribed, avoid alcohol and do not operate any motor vehicles while you are taking this medication. If antibiotics are prescribed, it is important to take as directed to avoid getting an infection. It is also important to avoid using a straw, rinsing, or spitting for at least 24 hours and avoid or limit use of tobacco products for 72 hours or longer if possible.

If you are experiencing swelling, this can be managed by placing an ice pack over the swollen area. It is important that you do not keep the ice pack held on the area for longer than fifteen or twenty minutes, and that you take a fifteen to twenty-minute break in between ice therapy sessions. Finally, it is recommended that you set aside time to rest for the first 24 hours and avoid intense physical activities for three or four days, or longer if possible. Provided you follow these aftercare instructions, most patients will be completely healed from the tooth extraction within a few weeks. The length of time necessary to heal will depend largely on the size of your wound, the underlying cause of the tooth needing to be extracted, and your body’s natural rate of healing.

If at any point you feel concerned that you are not healing fast enough or are experiencing issues such as difficulty opening your mouth, throbbing persistent pain, oozing discharge, or bleeding that continues for more than 24 hours, contact our office as soon as possible, as these may be indications that you have developed an infection.

Contact Us Today

At Coastal Jaw Surgery, we are committed to providing you with quality dental care and making your experience as smooth as possible. To schedule a consultation for a tooth extraction, or to learn more about our clinic and services, contact us today at (800) NEW-LOOK or fill out an online form at https://coastaljaw.com/appointment-request/

We look forward to improving your oral health, aesthetic appearance of your smile, and overall quality of life!

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