Tooth extraction can sometimes be a painful process. Our dentist in NW Calgary will do all things possible to avoid extracting your teeth. However, there are some instances when removing your teeth is necessary. It is essential to understand the steps that you need to take after the procedure has been completed. This can help speed up the recovery process and avoid other possible problems.
Important Tips Following Tooth Extraction in NW Calgary for A Fast Recovery
Teeth extraction will only be performed during some extreme situation. This is since losing a single tooth can have a detrimental impact on the rest of the structure of your mouth. Thanks to the development in the field of dentistry, there are now solutions that can restore your beautiful smile and avoid the related complications.
Preventing Dry Socket
After the wisdom tooth has been removed, your body will immediately go through the process of self-repair and recovery. A blood clot will be formed on the affected area that is intended to protect the bones, muscles, and tissues underneath. You can imagine this as a scab that will protect your wound while it heals. It is very important to maintain the blood clot as instructed by your dentist that specializes in tooth extraction near you. In case this has been dislodged, the bones that are exposed will cause a tremendous amount of pain. This is a condition known as dry socket. Some of your activities and habits that may appear apparently harmless may cause dry socket such as sipping using straws and swishing mouthwash around.
Keeping Your Head Elevated
If you really want to shorten the recovery period, you can temporarily keep your head elevated when you sleep for about three days. Add some pillows to ensure that the upper body will assume an angle of 45-degrees. This will help in expediting your recovery after the surgical procedure. If you are lying flat, the volume of blood will increase. Sleeping while keeping your head elevated will prevent swelling. You may ask your dentist in NW Calgary to recommend an airline pillow which is more convenient and effective at keeping your head elevated even if you are in an upright position.
Using Ice
Coldness has the power to reduce inflammation and swelling. Therefore, we recommend applying ice on the area that is closest to where the extraction has been performed. Start by wrapping the ice using cloth to ensure that you will not experience ice burn. Ensure that you only apply the ice for around 20 minutes. Our dentist that specializes in tooth extraction in NW Calgary may also recommend a head wrap that will make it easier and more effective to keep the ice on your jaw. Never apply anything warm on the affected area. Heat can encourage the circulation of blood that will lead to swelling and pain.
Avoid Habits That Can Dry Out Your Mouth
After teeth extraction, it will be quite normal to feel sore. Depending on the discomfort that you are feeling, you might be tempted to breathe through your mouth. If possible, we encourage you to avoid this habit since this can dry out the mouth. Once the mouth has dried out, this can disturb your mouth’s pH level. This is the perfect environment for bacteria that can cause a cavity. Therefore, it will increase the possibility of an infection occurring.
Finally, you can also eat cold and soft foods. While you may not be able to taste of some of the foods that you usually eat, you will have the chance to enjoy the refreshing taste of coconut water. This has the power to keep your blood-sugar levels stabilized and rejuvenate your body’s electrolytes. You should also listen to the instructions provided by your dentist in NW Calgary to prevent any possible repercussions.