Although a Tooth Extraction in Sparks NV usually happens in a dentist’s or oral surgeon’s office instead of a hospital, they still should be treated as major surgeries. The aftercare for removing a tooth needs to be planned before the surgery, if possible. Here are some tips to make recovery from a tooth extraction easier.
Get Someone Else To Drive
Tooth extractions often require general anesthesia. This leaves people groggy and disorientated for many hours after the surgery. It often takes about 24 hours for the body to completely remove anesthesia. Never drive after getting anesthesia. Hire a taxi or have a trusted friend drive. The dentist’s office personnel should be able to recommend a taxi service.
Rinse
The mouth is a magnet for bacteria. To keep the surgical site sterile, rinse with warm salt water. Begin rinsing 24 hours after the surgery. Rinse gently and do not vigorously swish the salt water back and forth or gargle. Rinsing too vigorously may cause bleeding and delay healing. Rinse several times a day.
Painkillers
Only take painkillers as prescribed or recommended by the dentist or oral surgeon. Until a painkiller kicks in, use an ice bag for 20 minutes at a time to numb the pain. This also helps reduce swelling. Place the ice bag or cold back on the cheek outside of the mouth.
Soft Foods Only
Chewing will be painful for a few days. Eat only soft foods like broth, pudding, yogurt or gelatin. Even a glass of milk is better than not eating at all. The soft diet may cause minor diarrhea which can be treated with over the counter diarrhea medications. Liquid medications are better than chewable tablets.
Get Plenty of Rest
Being active or even bending over might cause bleeding. General anesthesia and painkillers may also compromise a person’s sense of balance. Take it easy. Sleep with the head propped up to avoid breakthrough bleeding of the surgical site.
A Tooth Extraction in Sparks NV is a traumatic event but the pain and swelling can be reduced with painkillers, rinsing with salt water and changing gauze pads when they soak through with blood. More information about tooth extractions and other common dental procedures can be found at SparksDentalNV.com. Check it out before a toothache hits.
You can also visit them on Google+.
