The procedure of removing one or more teeth is known as tooth extraction. There are many reasons why dentists would recommend a tooth extraction. In this article, we will learn why you may have to get your tooth extracted and tips to follow after the extraction.
Common Reasons for Extracting Teeth
- The tooth is badly damaged or decayed
- The mouth is overcrowded
- To prevent infection caused by decay or damage to the tooth pulp
- To prevent infection caused by gum diseases
- Wisdom tooth removal due to lack of space at the back of the mouth
What Happens After Tooth Extraction?
After the dentist pulls out the tooth, a blood clot is formed in the socket. He will pack a gauze pad to stop the bleeding. You may even need stitches to close the gum edges over the extraction site.
After the tooth extraction, you will experience some pain, swelling, and minor bleeding. If the swelling is severe, you may have trouble opening your mouth completely.
In certain conditions, the blood clot may break loose and expose the bone in the socket. This condition is known as a dry socket and can be quite painful. If the dry socket pain lasts for a long time, it’s recommended that you go for a dry socket treatment.
10 Tooth Extraction Aftercare Tips
Here are 10 aftercare tips that you must follow after tooth extraction.
- Take Your Medication
Take the prescribed pain killers and anti-inflammatory medication without fail. They reduce the pain and swelling that come with tooth extraction.
However, if the pain persists or you experience bleeding two days after the extraction, visit your dentist.
- Take Ample Rest
Avoid physical activities for at least 24 hours after the extraction, even if you feel well. Try to get some rest after the procedure.
Do not exercise as it can increase the blood pressure. This, in turn, can make the extraction site bleed.
- Keep the Head Elevated
When you lie down, prop your head with pillows. Do not lie flat as it may prolong bleeding.
- Let it Clot
You must let the extraction site clot as it will cover the socket and heal. The doctor will give you a gauze pad to bite on the extraction site. You have to leave the gauze for at least 3 to 4 hours after the procedure. If you cannot keep it in place for that long, change the gauze pad every 30 minutes.