Tooth Extraction Recovery: What You Should Know

Tooth extraction is a routine procedure performed by dental health professionals. It is necessary when you have wisdom teeth that put pressure on adjacent teeth, crowded teeth, excessive tooth decay, or a tooth infection. 

You may have heard or read about the procedure plenty of times. But, do you know what the recovery process entails?

Dr. Robert A. Ogie, in Yuma, Arizona, performs dozens of dental extractions each year. In this blog, he wants to give you an insight into the recovery process to help prepare you for the procedure.

Stages of Recovery After Tooth Extraction

You need to pay close attention to your recovery process to ensure you are healing well. Here are the stages of recovery you should know about:

• You are likely to experience some swelling, bleeding, or blood clots forming in the first 24 hours after the tooth extraction. Slight pain and discomfort are common occurrences during this period. However, don’t be alarmed. Dr. Ogie will provide all the required instructions and medication to help you feel well.
• After about 24 hours, you need to take extra care to ensure you don’t dislodge the clot as this can lead to complications. Avoid brushing on the side where the extraction was performed.
• Within the first week, your gum will start to heal around the extraction site, and within the first ten days, the site will heal completely. After two weeks, you should no longer experience tenderness in your gums.

Do’s and Don'ts After Tooth Extraction

Here are a few do and don’ts you should be aware of to help with the tooth extraction recovery process:

• Apply an ice pack after the procedure to reduce swelling and minimize any pain you might feel. Continue this multiple times for 10-minute intervals until you feel comfortable.
• Bite down on the gauze your dentist places to prevent bleeding.
• Take medication only as directed by the dentist.
• Don’t use straws as you may disturb the extraction site.
• Don’t rush into your routine the next day. Rest for at least 24 hours.
• Consume soft foods like yogurt and pudding, and stay away from crunchy foods for a few days.
• If you feel unbearable pain or serious bleeding, get in touch with Dr. Ogie immediately. 

For more information on tooth extraction and the healing process, get in touch with Dr. Ogie, DDS, at (928)726-9262, or head to our office at 2730 W 16th St, Yuma, AZ 85364.