Tooth Extraction After Care
October 11, 2022
Having your tooth pulled can be a frightening experience especially if it’s your first time. But now that it’s over, all you need to concentrate on is your rehabilitation and recovery.
According to family dental specialists in San Antonio, your general health depends on a proper recovery following a tooth extraction.
Are you aware that your diet plays a significant role in your rehabilitation? Some foods are found to hasten your recovery while others may irritate the area where your tooth was extracted. Here is a list of foods you can consume and foods you should avoid after tooth extraction to help you recover quickly.
Foods and Activities to Help You Recover Faster
Drink a Lot of Cold Beverages
You'll feel throbbing pain and inflammation in your mouth after your operation. Drinking cold liquids, such as smoothies, cold soup, and cold water may help minimize the consequences of tooth extraction. Cold beverages, such as fruit smoothies, may give your body more nutrients to boost your health.
Consume Soft Foods
You'll need to refrain from putting pressure on the wound while healing from a tooth extraction. While your mouth naturally exerts some strain on your sockets while you eat, you need to carefully choose the foods to consume. When you eat soft foods like soup, pudding, and leafy greens, you're reducing the amount of stress in your mouth, which aids in wound healing.
Avoid Eating Hard Foods
Eating hard foods like nuts, candies, and some fruits can place too much pressure on your incision. Unnecessary pressure on your wound can open it up delaying the healing process. By using less force and closing the damage as quickly as possible, avoiding hard foods aids in healing.
Clean up the Extraction Site
Two to three times each day, gently rinse the region with an antibacterial mouthwash. Wait until your dentist says it's okay to brush straight over the extraction site. While waiting for it to heal, you can regularly brush and floss all other areas.
Drink Your Prescribed Medicine
In addition to painkillers, your dentist may recommend antibiotics. It's crucial to take these medicines exactly as prescribed. Additionally, you can use over-the-counter analgesics like acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
How Long Does a Tooth Extraction Heal?
Most people heal after a week or so, depending on your operation. Within 48 to 72 hours, you can resume your normal activities, but it typically takes several weeks for the jawbone to recover fully. As a result, you'll likely need to wait a few months to install a dental implant if you intend to replace the missing tooth with an artificial one.
Are You Interested in Family Dental in San Antonio?
Look no further if you need a dentist who can identify, treat, and manage your oral health issues. At La Cantera Dental, we provide dependable, high-quality dental services that can meet all of your requirements. Do you have any questions regarding your oral health or treatment? Our team is here to help. Contact our staff today to learn more about our services!