Extraction of Teeth

Modern cosmetic dentistry is mainly used to prevent the tooth loss. It is very important to take all the possible measures to preserve and maintain teeth because even the loss of a single tooth can have a great impact on the dental health and also on the appearance. But, there are certain situations in which it is desirable to remove a tooth from the mouth.

Here are some of the reasons which may force you to get your tooth removed –

If you just had a tooth extraction or if your dentist has recommended a tooth extraction then the following information will be helpful while going through the first few post-extraction days –

Do not disturb the wound

After the tooth extraction, it is advisable not to disturb the wound as disturbing a wound can result in bleeding, infection or even irritation. It is also advisable to chew the food on the opposite side for at least first 24 hours so that the wound do not get disturbed. Also, the use of sharp things like spoon, utensils should be avoided to make sure that wound do not get disturbed.

Brushing

After the surgery, it is advisable not to brush the teeth for at least 8 hours but you may brush your teeth gently after the first 8 hours. But, you should try to avoid the area of surgery.

Mouth wash

It is advisable to avoid the rinsing for the first 24 hours after the extraction of tooth. The rinsing is avoided in order to make sure that the healing blood clot is properly formed. A healing blood clot is essential for wound healing and the disturbance of the healing clot can result in an increased bleeding or even the loss of the blood clot. Also, the loss of the healing clot can result in a painful condition called as dry socket.

Do not spit or suck through a straw

Spitting or sucking through a straw will promote bleeding and this can even result in the dislodging of the healing clot. So, it is advisable not to suck through a straw.

Pain

Some sort of discomfort is natural after the tooth extraction and generally, analgesic tablets are used in this situation but an individual should use these tablets only after consulting a dentist.

Swelling

Swelling usually occurs after the tooth extraction and it disappears in a few days. But, if it persists even after 4 days or if you are not able to eat your food because of the swelling then you should consult your dentist. The swelling generally starts receding after 2-3 days. Also, if you want to prevent swelling then you should apply an ice pack or a cold towel on your face at the area of extraction.

Difficulty in opening mouth

The jaw muscles get stiff by holding the mouth in an open position during the surgery and so, you may face some difficulty in opening your mouth after the surgery. Usually, the difficulty lasts for 3-4 days. Massaging the jaw muscles, applying moist heat at regular intervals and eating nutritious food will help you to remove the stiffness from the muscles.

Bleeding

Bleeding is very common after the tooth extraction and dentists usually give some useful information to control the bleeding. A rolled up gauze pad is placed on the extraction site which should be changed at regular intervals. You should also inform your dentist if you have bleeding problems and also, if you take blood thinning medicines like warfarin or aspirin.

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