Advice for post extraction

[Meeuwse]

Hi.
I am set to have a tooth extraction but I am worried about what to do after. I can sit back and let the dentist do the procedure but then afterward it is on me to manage it and this is where the panic sets in. What if I bleed a lot or if it gets infected. How can I make sure that I do everything I can to keep the area healthy. What steps do I need to take. Other questions also come to mind like do I or don’t I brush the area/what kind of mouthwash would help fight infection/do I get a check up afterward ect. Can you shed some light on it all for me. Thanking you tremendously.

[Sharon]

Hello,
Thank you for your post.
Due to the fact that you could feel sore for a day or two after extraction, it would be advisable to try foods that are soft or liquid foods such as warm soup. Also, try and avoid eating on the extraction side for a few days afterward. Do wait until the anaesthetic has worn off before attempting to eat anything. Because the area is numb it is easy to bite, chew, or injure the tongue, gums, and cheeks while not being aware of it. On the day of extraction avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, heavy lifting or strenuous exercise, as well as not rinsing the mouth. If the mouth is rinsed it can cause complications with clotting. This, in turn, can cause other complications such as dry socket which can be very painful. Over the counter painkillers may help if you are feeling a little sore once the anaesthetic has worn off. You may also encounter some bleeding. If so roll up a clean piece of gauze or cotton wool and bite down on it for about twenty minutes. This should stop the bleeding. If it does not or you are concerned about the blood loss, then do call your clinic for further advice. If your clinic is closed, then call an emergency dentist or visit Accident and Emergency. Best of luck to you.