Some dental problems may call for the extraction of your tooth. A tooth extraction is a relatively complex procedure and requires immense after care. Here are some tips that will help you take care of your teeth after an extraction.
Take it easy
The day you get the tooth extracted should be kept easy. Avoid exercising or any kind of activity that is physically taxing. Try to keep your head up as this will help avoid bleeding. You could use an extra pillow to keep your head high as you sleep.
Avoid rinsing
Most people make the mistake of rinsing their mouth after an extraction. Rinsing your mouth could damage the blood clot. You should not rinse your mouth for at least 24 hours after the extraction.
Watch the temperatures
You should not expose your mouth to any extreme temperature for at least a few days after the extraction. Do not eat anything that is extremely hot or cold.
Brush carefully
Keeping your mouth clean after an extraction is extremely important. Thus, you need to ensure that you brush your teeth. However, you need to be careful while brushing your teeth. Be gentle around the area of extraction. Also, make sure that you are using a soft bristle toothbrush.
No cigarettes and alcohol
Completely refrain from cigarettes and alcohol for a few days after the extraction. Both, alcohol and cigarettes are known to increase the blood pressure slightly. This can further aggravate bleeding. Consuming alcohol immediately after extraction could delay the healing process. It is suggested that you do not drink alcohol for at least 24 hours after the extraction. As for cigarettes, try to refrain from them for as long as possible.
Use sea salt water mouthwash
Using a sea salt water mouthwash can speed up the process of healing. Take a glass of lukewarm water and add to this one teaspoon of salt. Use this twice a day to rinse your mouth and the area around the socket. This salt water mouthwash will help keep your teeth clean and speed up the healing. Continue this for a week after the extraction. Make note that you use the sea salt water mouthwash only 24 hours after the extraction.
Dealing with pain and bleeding
You may experience some pain and bleeding after the extraction. However, there is nothing really to worry about. If you experience bleeding, gently rinse your mouth. Place a cotton pad on the extraction site and bite firmly on to it for at least 15 minutes. This will help ease out the bleeding. OTC pain relief medications can be used to deal with the pain. However, if the degree of pain is high or continue to persists, make sure to see your dentist.
Keep these simple tips in mind and you will be able to take care of your teeth well after an extraction.
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