We know that caring for your teeth and gums after a tooth extraction can be uncomfortable and worrying, but we are here to offer you the support and guidance you need for a proper recovery.

In the following article, we present a series of useful tips to help you manage the symptoms after tooth extraction, seven in total. You will find all the information you need for a successful recovery.

1) Stop the bleeding by biting on a gauze pad

Bite on a compressive pad for at least 1 hour to stop the bleeding. If bleeding persists after an hour, change the compression gauze to a new one, but avoid leaving the same gauze on for many hours to prevent infection and allow for better healing. 

2) Head raised when sleeping

When sleeping, keep your head elevated with two pillows for the first few hours after the tooth extraction to reduce swelling and bleeding. Sleeping with your head elevated helps reduce blood pooling in the affected area and prevent swelling. 

Avoid sleeping on your stomach or side to avoid applying pressure to the area. 

3) Ice to reduce inflammation

Apply ice to the affected area for the first 12 hours after tooth extraction to reduce inflammation. Wrap the ice in a cloth or use an ice pack and place it on the affected area for approximately 10-20 minutes at a time. Wait a few minutes before reapplying the ice. 

Do not apply heat to the area, as this can increase inflammation. 

4) Lots of rest

Rest and avoid physical exertion for at least the first 24 hours after the tooth extraction to allow better healing and prevent complications. Avoid strenuous physical activity, lifting heavy objects, or leaning forward to avoid increasing pressure on the affected area. 

It is important to follow your dentist's precise instructions on how long you should rest and when you can return to your normal activities.

5) Eat a bland diet

After tooth extraction, follow a bland diet for the first 24 hours to avoid irritation in the affected area. Avoid spicy, hard, or crunchy foods that can damage the blood clot and prolong healing. Drink enough water to keep your mouth clean of food debris and to prevent dehydration. 

6) Swallow saliva

Avoid rinsing the mouth or spitting for the first few hours after tooth extraction to avoid disturbing the blood clot in the affected area and prevent excessive bleeding. If you feel the need to clean your mouth, swallow your saliva and use a sterile gauze pad to wipe away any excess saliva or blood. 

7) Follow the recipe to the letter

Take the medications prescribed by your dentist, including antibiotics and pain relievers, to prevent infection and relieve pain after tooth extraction. 

Follow your dentist's precise instructions on how to take the medications and for how long to take them. Do not stop taking the antibiotics, even if you feel better before finishing the treatment. 

Avoid touching the affected area with your tongue or fingers to avoid irritation and delay healing.

Bonus: No smoking or drinking alcohol

It is important to note that smoking and drinking alcohol after a tooth extraction can have negative effects on healing and increase the risk of infection in the area. For this reason, it is recommended to avoid these activities for at least three weeks after surgery. 

Also, alcohol use can interfere with prescription pain medications and healing. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, after a dental extraction it is important to follow the dentist's recommendations to ensure adequate recovery, prevent complications, avoid healing delays, and reduce the risk of infections. If you have any questions or concerns about how to care for the area after dental extraction, do not hesitate to contact us.

Also, if you want more information about dental care and other related topics, we invite you to continue reading our blog. Here you will find a wide variety of resources and tips to help you maintain good dental health and a healthy, radiant smile.

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