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When you have an infected or damaged tooth, you may need to find an emergency dentist to perform an immediate tooth extraction. Once this procedure is completed, it’s important to be vigilant in your recovery to avoid complications. Follow the list of do’s and don’ts below to ensure easy and successful healing. 

Do:

Schedule some time off.

After a tooth extraction procedure, you’ll likely be groggy from pain medication or localized anesthetic. It’s also common for the mouth to be swollen and red and for the patient to experience some minor bleeding after surgery. With this in mind, give yourself a day or two to relax, so the healing process is uninterrupted. If the dentist prescribes medication, follow the instructions carefully and avoid operating a motor vehicle.

Eat soft foods.

Tooth ExtractionsDuring the healing process, crunchy foods can exacerbate the extraction area and lead to unnecessary pain and bleeding. Stick to soft foods like smoothies, oatmeal, pudding, or mashed potatoes until your mouth has mended. 

Don’t:

Smoke for 48 hours.

Smoking after a tooth extraction can lead to many complications, from high blood pressure and dizziness to dry socket and an increased risk of infection. The sucking action used with cigarettes can also slow the healing process and is likely to disrupt blood clotting, causing the area to bleed more than necessary. As such, wait at least two days, if not longer, after this procedure. 

Brush or floss in the extraction area.

Following oral surgery, the extraction point will be quite sensitive. While you should continue your normal teeth cleaning routine, avoid brushing or flossing in this area. Instead, rinse with a salt water solution daily to keep that space clean. 

 

Family First Dentistry is known throughout Anchorage, AK, and its surrounding areas for providing unparalleled dental care for children and adults. If you need routine teeth cleaning or an emergency dentist to assist with a tooth-related injury, call their office today at (907) 562-2820 to schedule an appointment. For additional information on the top-notch services they provide, from tooth extractions to hidden braces and dental implants, get to know this trusted practice online

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