There are many factors such as infection, extreme decay, and injuries that can necessitate tooth extraction. Furthermore, tooth removal might prove necessary for the purpose of realigning the teeth as overcrowding can be the root of the problem. After the extraction takes place it is important to make sure you follow all the care instructions to have a speedy recovery and to avoid complications.
After a tooth is extracted it is completely natural to experience bleeding in the extracted tooth’s socket despite having stitches. To stop the bleeding and promote clotting it is advised to gently place gauze pads on the location. The pads would have to remain in place for approximately 4 hours after the operation and you should avoid any activities that can cause further bleeding such as smoking, rinsing, and using a straw to drink. As the process is a rather painful one you will need to take painkillers as is prescribed for you (in most cases acetaminophen should be enough).
Care Instruction After the Operation
After the operation takes place it is important to rest and avoid extensive physical activity for approximately two days. Keep your head in an elevated position as far as possible as it helps with both bleeding and swelling. After tooth extraction it is natural to experience some swelling, using an ice pack that is applied and taken off in 20 minutes intervals can help with the swelling. Most importantly try not to disturb the clotting process by rinsing or drinking through a straw. However, if the bleeding resumes you can gently place your gauze pads on the bleeding spot (do not apply excessive pressure as it can lead to further bleeding) in order to help with the clotting process. You can start rinsing gentally 3 days after the operation, however, avoid mouthwashes for a week.
Part of the care instructions would have to be followed for up to a week after the operation takes place. These include taking your antibiotics, avoiding heavy exercises, and dietry restrictions that if not observed can cause further swelling, bleeding, and over all aggravation. Consequently patients are advised to avoid food and drinks that are either hot, cold, spicy, or crunchy. It is important to stay hyderated and eat soft food such as soup and pudding.
After a tooth extraction it is rather common to have antibiotics prescribed for you in addition to the usual painkillers. As these medications can cause dizziness it is important to rest and be extra carefull not to suddenly stand up. It is highly recommended to drink a lot of water when taking antibiotics and not to take them on an empty stomach.
Signs and Symptoms to Be Cautious of
While tooth extraction can be a rather painful operation and could prove disruptive to one’s daily routine, there are some complications that can arise after the operation. It is important to let your dental professional know about your symptoms right away especially if the include chest pains and fever.
- Excessive bleeding and swelling: although some swelling and bleeding is to be expected with tooth extraction, an excessive amount of either can point to underlying complications and add to the length of the healing process.
- Infection: after a tooth extraction one of the most common complications is developing an infection as having an open wound would highten the chances bacteria entering the body.
- Dry socket: when the blood clot that is formed on the socket from which the tooth was extracted from is disloged, it can lead to Osteisis.
- Nerve Damage: a rather rare conidition that can occur as a result of extensive damage to nerve endings that were supporting the extracted tooth. This type of damage can lead to permanent numbness in the location the damage was induced.
- Osteroradionecrosis: this condition can develop in case of damage to blood vessels supporting the bone underneath an extracted tooth resulting in the death of the bone. However, it must be noted that the risk of developing this condition is higher in patients who have a history of radiotherapy prior to the tooth extraction.