What is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is the procedure of removing a tooth from its bone socket. This procedure could be required due to tooth decay, gum disease, or overcrowding. During the process, a dentist typically uses a local anaesthetic to minimise discomfort.
Steps for a Smooth Recovery After Tooth Extraction
Although tooth extractions can be frightening, you can guarantee a speedy recovery if you receive the proper care. We at Plaza Dental Care are dedicated to offering thorough care before, during, and following your extraction. Here are some crucial actions to do to facilitate a speedy recovery following tooth extraction.
1. Immediate Aftercare
Manage Pain
After the tooth extraction, managing pain is crucial. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate discomfort. Your dentist may prescribe pharmaceutical drugs if needed. Ensure you take your medicine as directed to manage pain effectively.
Allow Yourself Time to Heal
Although recovery or healing times vary, it’s crucial to give oneself enough time to recover. To avoid difficulties, refrain from physically demanding activities for at least 24 hours following the extraction. During the earliest stages of healing, rest is essential.
2. Dietary Considerations
Soft Diet
A soft diet is recommended post-extraction. Eat soft foods like yoghurt, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs. These foods are gentle on the extraction site and won’t disrupt the clot that forms in the socket, which is crucial for healing.
Avoid Certain Foods
Avoid certain foods, especially those that are hard, chewy, or spicy. These can irritate the extraction site and prolong the healing process. Also, avoid hot foods and beverages, as they can dislodge the clot and lead to a condition called dry socket. Dentists also suggest avoiding smoking.
Stay Hydrated
Although it’s important to stay hydrated, avoid drinking with straws. Dry sockets may result from the suction pushing the clot out of the way. Avoid alcohol and carbonated drinks and drink lots of water instead.
3. Rest and Recovery
Get Enough Rest
Prioritize your rest to aid the healing process. Elevate your head with an extra pillow when lying down to reduce swelling and bleeding.
Avoid Physical Activity
Limit physical activity for the first few days. Strenuous exercise can increase blood pressure and cause more bleeding. Give your body the time it needs to heal fully.
4. Oral Hygiene
Avoid Rinsing Your Mouth
Avoid rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours after the extraction. After that, gently rinse with a saltwater solution to prevent infection. Brush and floss your teeth carefully, avoiding the extraction site. 
How about consulting a dentist?
Recovery from a tooth extraction requires careful monitoring and adherence to your dentist’s advice. Following these recommendations will make a speedy and simple recovery possible. In case you are looking to extract your tooth, dentists at Plaza Dental Care located in Modbury, Adelaide are available to help. To encourage a healthy healing process, make sleep a priority, drink plenty of water, and adhere to your dentists’ suggestions.