What to Do After Tooth Extraction

What Is a Tooth Extraction?

It is a dental procedure that involves the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. Tooth extractions in Morristown are typically done when a tooth is too damaged or decayed to be repaired through other means.

During extraction, your dentist or oral surgeon will numb the area with a local anesthetic to reduce pain or discomfort. They will then use specialized tools to loosen the tooth from the surrounding tissues and carefully remove it from the socket.

Why Do You Need a Tooth Extraction?

Generally, tooth extractions at Dental Care of Morristown are typically done when a tooth is too damaged or decayed to be repaired through other means or when it is causing significant pain or discomfort. Some common reasons why you may need a tooth extraction include:

1. Severe tooth decay – is usually when a tooth is too damaged to be repaired with a filling or crown.
2. Advanced gum disease – can cause teeth to loosen and shift in the mouth, making them more susceptible to decay and infection.
3. Impacted teeth – the tooth is unable to emerge fully from the gum line, causing pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth.
4. Crowding – as part of orthodontic treatment, Dentists will remove one or more teeth to create more space in the mouth for proper alignment of teeth.

Problematic wisdom teeth – are the third set of molars to emerge, usually in the late teens or early twenties. In some cases, these teeth can cause pain, infection, or damage to surrounding teeth and may need to be extracted.

​How Long Does a Dental Extraction Last?

Tooth extractions in Morristown can vary depending on several factors, such as:

1. The complexity of the extraction
2. The location of the tooth
3. Your unique circumstances

A simple tooth extraction can take 20-40 minutes, while a more complex extraction can take longer than an hour.

What Should You Do After a Tooth Extraction?

Some general guidelines to follow after tooth extraction are:

1. Bite down gently on a clean cloth or gauze pad for at least 30-45 minutes to help stop bleeding.
2. Rest and limit strenuous activity for the first day or two after the extraction.
3. Apply an ice pack to the affected area to help reduce swelling and pain.
4. Take any pain medication prescribed by your dentist or oral surgeon to manage and ease discomfort.
5. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours after the extraction. They can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications. Better yet, a dentist near you will recommend waiting at least 2 weeks for the extraction wound to heal before drinking or smoking.
6. Gently rinse your mouth with salt water or a prescribed mouthwash to help keep the extraction site clean.
7. Avoid touching the extraction site with your fingers or tongue. It can disrupt the healing process by dislodging the blood clot.
8. Schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist or oral surgeon to ensure proper healing and to monitor your progress.
9. Eat a soft and nutritious diet that will not irritate the extraction site or cause pain. Therefore, avoid hard, crunchy, spicy, and sticky foods.

​What Is the Best Food After Tooth Extraction?

One key aspect of a quick and smooth recovery after wisdom tooth removal near you is to eat well. Here are some of the best foods to eat after tooth extraction:

1. Broth-based or pureed soups – provide essential nutrients and hydration while being easy to eat and swallow.
2. Soft-cooked vegetables – examples include boiled or steamed carrots, sweet potatoes, and squash.
3. Soft yogurt without added sugar – provides protein, calcium, and probiotics that help with healing.
4. Smoothies made with soft fruits – like bananas or avocados and non-dairy milk or yogurt.
5. Scrambled eggs or omelets – are an excellent source of protein.
6. Soft puddings and custards – are a good source of calories and protein while being easy to swallow.
7. Soft oatmeal – is a good source of fiber and nutrients.
8. Plenty of water – to stay hydrated.