The idea of a tooth extraction doesn’t sit well with most people at first — after all, who wants to have their teeth pulled? However, huge advancements have been made when it comes to the extraction of teeth and many patients in Manhattan find that the entire process is quick, easy, and virtually painless.
Recovery from a tooth extraction can take a couple of days, but how well and how fast you recover heavily depends on how you take care of yourself. By following these tips for recovery after a tooth extraction, you can reduce the risk of infection, feel more comfortable, and improve your overall recovery experience.
What to Do When Recovering from a Tooth Extraction in Manhattan
Your periodontist will send you home with a list of “do’s and don’ts” following your tooth extraction, so be sure to keep his or her professional advice in mind during recovery.
- Be vigilant about replacing gauze – After extracting your tooth or teeth, your doctor may put gauze pads in your mouth to limit bleeding and help a clot to form. Those pads need to be changed often — as soon as they become soaked with blood, or every 3-4 hours, tops.
- Take it easy – For 1 or 2 days following your extraction, don’t make any big plans to leave Manhattan. Stay home, relax, and don’t do any strenuous activity. Your body needs this time to heal. When lying down, don’t lie flat because it can cause you to keep bleeding; keep your head propped up with pillows.
- Ice your face – Not all patients experience facial swelling after a tooth extraction, but as a precaution, apply ice frequently (in 10 minute intervals) along your cheeks and jaw line where the extraction occurred.
- No smoking – Smoking any type of tobacco product after having teeth removed can prevent proper healing.
- Do not use straws – Many patients look forward to milkshakes or smoothies after a tooth extraction, but make sure you do not drink them using a straw. A straw is too dangerous because the suction can dislodge the blood clot at the extraction site and delay proper healing.
- Take prescribed medications – The medication your doctor prescribes will help decrease or eliminate any pain you may have.
- Keep your mouth clean – You can brush your teeth and floss the night after your extraction, but be very gentle and avoid the surgical site. Stick to using prescription mouthwash, and avoiding swishing or spiting the liquid out forcefully. Instead, gently shake your head from side to side and let it drip out of your mouth slowly.
Periodontal Microsurgery for Tooth Extraction: An Easy Recovery
Dr. Scott O. Kissel specializes in tooth extractions using microsurgery, which allows for a much gentler extraction, faster recovery period, and little to no pain. In fact, because Dr. Kissel’s approach to tooth extraction is so low-impact, you can expect to be back to normal activities after your procedure and can easily manage any discomfort with over-the-counter medication like Advil or Tylenol.
Learn more about the difference a microsurgical tooth extraction can make in your recovery time and overall dental care — call Manhattan tooth extraction expert, Dr. Scott Kissel, at (212) 702-9088 to schedule a consultation.
