Tooth Extraction Patient Recovery: What to Expect After Surgery By Stephen Dowell, DDS on March 02, 2018

Whether it’s done to get rid of impacted wisdom teeth, remove a tooth that's been severed damaged or fractured, or prepare a patient for another dental procedure, tooth extraction can serve an essential function in dental health and general wellness. Patients who come to our Carrollton, OH practice can benefit from a simple tooth extraction in a number of ways.

We’d like to consider the patient recovery process following a tooth extraction. This will help you understand what to expect following the dental procedure.

Will I Need to Take Time Off from Work?

This can vary from patient to patient. Some patients who undergo tooth extraction may want to take a day off from work just to make sure they can rest well and address the immediate side effects of the procedure. Other patients may not need to spend a day recovering and will be able to return to work the next day so long as it is not physically demanding. Your dentist will discuss taking time off during the consultation process.

Pain and Discomfort

Tooth extraction patients can expect to feel some amount of pain and discomfort in the first days after tooth extraction. This pain can be managed using prescription pain killers as well as over-the-counter pain relievers. Be sure to use any medications as directed, not exceeding dosage.

Bruising and Swelling

Swelling and bruising along the gums and soft tissue where the extraction was performed is also common. This should subside in a few days. Applying a cold compress to the face can help manage the bruising and swelling, and can also help ease any pain and discomfort.

Your Diet After Tooth Extraction

After a tooth extraction, patients will want to eat soft foods or liquid foods to help avoid soreness during meals. Avoid spicy foods, crunchy foods, and foods that are of a hot or cold temperature. These kinds of food items can lead to discomfort. Patients should try to avoid chewing on the side of the mouth that’s been operated on if possible. Do not use a drinking straw while healing as the suction can cause problems with sutures and clotting in the operated area.

Oral Hygiene After Tooth Extraction

Patients should brush and floss as usual after their extraction, but they must do so gently to avoid disturbing the gum tissue as it is healing and to prevent discomfort. Your oral surgeon or dentist may recommend rinsing with warm salt water to help keep the incision sites clean and sanitary.

Attend Follow-Up Visits as Scheduled

A follow-up visit or two will be needed after tooth extraction in order to monitor your healing progress and to ensure there are no complications. Be sure to attend any follow-ups as scheduled.

Be in Touch with Your Dentist in Case of Emergencies

If you notice excessive bleeding or discomfort following your oral surgery, or any issues that could cause alarm, contact your oral surgeon immediately. Getting these matters resolved as soon as possible can help prevent major complications for occurring and put your mind at ease.

Contact Dowell Dental Group

To learn more about tooth extraction procedures and what we can do to enhance your dental health, be sure to contact Dowell Dental Group. We look forward to your visit and discussing these matters in much greater detail.