If you have a tooth which is diseased, fractured, or crowding other teeth, then your dentist may suggest having it extracted because doing so can protect the health of your mouth. But in order to continue protecting the health of your mouth, there are some actions you need to take after the extraction procedure.
- Do not rinse your mouth in the 24 hours after your procedure. Doing so could disrupt the formation of the blood clot that aids healing. After the 24 hour time period, you can gently rinse your mouth with salt water.
- Avoid using a straw for 24 hours after the procedure because this too could disrupt blood clot formation.
- Continue brushing and flossing your teeth, but avoid doing so near the extraction site.
- Avoid substances that can irritate oral tissue and delay healing such as alcohol and tobacco.
- Follow the diet your dentist recommends and avoid hot or crunchy foods. Do not chew food near the extraction site in order to keep it clean.
- Your mouth will bleed a little after an extraction, and you can prevent excess bleeding by keeping your head up and avoiding strenuous activities. If you continue bleeding after a procedure, bite down on a gauze pad to apply pressure to the extraction site. If this does not work, contact your dentist.
- If you mouth swells, apply a cold compress and contact your dentist. Also contact your dentist if you experience pain that will not go away after a few days.