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5 Things To Avoid After Tooth Extraction

Getting a tooth extracted can feel daunting, but the real challenge often begins after the procedure during the healing process. In fact, approximately three out of four (74%) adults have recently undergone a tooth extraction, emphasising the prevalence of this procedure. Your decisions – both what you do and what you don’t do – over the days following your extraction play a crucial role in how quickly and smoothly you recover. Neglecting appropriate aftercare can lead to complications like infections, prolonged discomfort, or even a painful condition known as a dry socket.

So, how can you steer clear of these pitfalls? The key is to be aware of the common mistakes to avoid. Let’s dive into the top five blunders that could hinder your recovery and discover how to ensure a smooth and stress-free healing journey!

Mistakes to Avoid After Tooth Extraction

Here are the five crucial mistakes that you should avoid after tooth extraction process:

  • Refrain from Strenuous Activities

Following a tooth extraction, taking it easy is your greatest ally. Engaging in strenuous activities – such as heavy lifting or vigorous workouts – can raise your blood pressure, possibly resulting in excessive bleeding from the extraction area. As per The Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, physical and strenuous activities should be avoided for 48 hours.

To recover, allow your body at least 24-48 hours of rest from physical activities. When you start your workout again, commence with gentle exercises and observe your body’s reactions.

  • Avoid Smoking or Using Straws

Smoking and using straws require suction, which can disturb the clot that protects your extraction area. When this occurs, the bone beneath becomes exposed, resulting in a painful condition known as a dry socket.

Did you know that the likelihood of experiencing dry sockets in smokers is an incredible 13.2% compared to just 38% in non-smokers? This concerning statistic highlights the grave dangers of smoking and vaping following tooth extraction.

Signs of dry sockets include intense pain, foul odour, and an off-putting taste in your mouth. To prevent this issue, avoid smoking and use a glass rather than a straw when drinking liquids. It’s a small change that can help you avoid significant discomfort.

  • Avoid Eating Hard or Sticky Foods

What you consume after a tooth extraction can either accelerate or hinder recovery. Hard or sticky foods, like nuts, chips, or chewy sweets, may irritate the surgical area or potentially dislodge the clot that shields it.

Instead, choose gentle and easy-to-eat options such as the following:

  • Mashed potatoes
  • Yoghurt, or
  • Scrambled eggs

These are soothing for your mouth and provide crucial nutrients that assist in recovery. Ensure that foods are kept at a lukewarm temperature since anything excessively hot may hinder recovery.

  • Don’t Skip Saltwater Rinses

Skipping saltwater rinses may appear harmless, but these mild washes are important for infection prevention and promoting healing. Saltwater aids in cleaning the surgical area without affecting the fragile healing tissue.

Studies have shown that those who used warm saline mouth rinses following dental extractions experienced fewer cases of alveolar osteitis (dry socket) than those who did not rinse. This underscores the critical role of saltwater rinses in avoiding problems and facilitating a more seamless healing process.

Begin rinsing gently about 24 hours after the procedure. Combine half a teaspoon of salt with a glass of lukewarm water and swish it in your mouth for about 30 seconds. Be gentle when rinsing. If you rinse too hard, it could cause bleeding or move the clot.

  • Be Cautious with Medication

Discomfort is a common aspect of healing, and managing it well requires a close review of your medication options. People often take medicines like ibuprofen following tooth extraction as part of their medication regimen to alleviate pain and swelling. But the truth is you should avoid taking this medicine.

However, the question arises: why no ibuprofen after tooth extraction?

While ibuprofen is well-recognised for its anti-inflammatory effects, it may occasionally disrupt blood clotting, a crucial process for effective healing. This heightens the likelihood of extended bleeding or issues like dry sockets. To facilitate a successful recovery, it’s vital to adhere to your dentist’s advice concerning medication.

Your dentist might recommend options such as acetaminophen, which offers effective pain relief while not interfering with clot formation. Always check with your dentist before using any over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications to confirm the safest choice for your recovery.

Read this blog to learn more on why you should prevent using ibuprofen after a tooth extraction.

Conclusion

Getting over a tooth extraction doesn’t need to be overwhelming. You can ensure a smooth and effective healing journey by avoiding common missteps such as omitting vital saltwater rinses, eating hard or sticky foods, smoking, overexerting, or ignoring prescribed medications.

Most importantly, listen to your body and prioritise aftercare. Your dentist is your most reliable advisor during this time, so feel free to ask questions or express concerns. With some patience and proper care, you’ll soon be able to enjoy a healthy, pain-free smile again!