Tooth extractions are more common than you would think. Yet because people are so worried about the actual process and procedure of a tooth exaction, Holiday residents may neglect the fact that they need to take care of themselves afterwards. There are some complications that should be monitored by a patient in order to keep pain and discomfort to a minimum, but also to make sure that new issues do not arise from poor oral care. For example, many smokers have a hard time dealing with dry socket because they chose to smoke right after their procedure when they were told it could cause issues until the area has healed.
Minimize Bleeding
Patients should not be worried if they notice that their extraction site is starting to bleed as this is normal. However, it is not normal to have a lot of bleeding, or to have it continue for days after a tooth extraction. Holiday residents are encouraged to bite firmly on the gauze that a dentist has placed in their mouth after the procedure because the additional pressure helps the blood clot in the exposed tooth socket. If someone does not have gauze at their home, a good alternative is to use a tea bag instead. Additionally, the tannic acid in tea will help with the blood clot as well.
Reducing Swelling
Swelling around the exposed tooth socket is to be expected for a while, and it is often recommended that a patient periodically apply an ice pack to their face. Swelling can cause someone to talk funny or have a hard time drinking or eating anything so it is important to make sure that it is addressed after a tooth extraction. Holiday residents might have noticed that they have bruises around the swelled areas of their tooth extraction, but this is normal and will slowly fade away as time progresses. Bruising will go away faster if someone makes sure to take care of their mouth after they have had a tooth removed.
*Disclaimer: The views expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of Anchor Dental Care*