PROPER CARE: TOOTH EXTRACTIONS

OUR GOAL IS TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE YOUR ORAL HEALTH GOALS WITH MINIMAL SIDE EFFECTS.

Tooth extraction can be a necessary dental procedure. It may relieve decay, facilitate orthodontic treatment or eliminate the pain and structural risks caused by wisdom teeth.

And while the tooth extraction itself is a serious procedure, aftercare is just as serious. Healing takes time, as the empty socket where your tooth was gradually fills in with bone and smooths over with adjacent gum tissue.

Dr. Whisenant believes it is vital for Dripping Springs, TX patients to be well versed in managing the risks of pain and infection associated with extraction.

Dr. Whisenant’s office recommends the following daily practices:

  • Eat soft foods, preferably high in protein.

  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, but do not drink through a straw for 5-7 days.

  • Take all prescribed medications according to their instructions.

  • If itching or swelling occurs, contact Dr. Whisenant office.

  • If you are a regular tobacco user, refrain from smoking for 3-4 days; smoking can dry the socket and increase the risk of infection.

 

At Gatlin Creek Dentistry, we care about our patients and want to make sure your recovery is comfortable and free of complications. If you have any concerns about your recovery, our staff is ready and happy to answer any questions.

 
 
 

DAY 1

  • Put pressure on the gauze pad placed on the surgical area by gently biting down.

  • Maintain constant pressure in intervals of 45-60 minutes until bleeding lessens.

  • Dampen the gauze sponge with water if it begins to dry out.

  • Change gauze as needed.

  • Use ice packs to control swelling.

  • Keep your head elevated.

  • Minimize activity.

  • If itching or swelling occurs, contact Dr. Whisenant office.

48 HOURS AFTER SURGERY

  • Rinse your mouth with warm salt water every 12 hours.

  • Avoid mouthwash that contains alcohol, as it can irritate the wound.

  • Keep your mouth clean by brushing areas around the surgical site, taking care to avoid the sutures.

  • Do not touch the wounded area at all.

  • Use ice packs to control swelling.

3 TO 14 DAYS AFTER SURGERY

Your sutures should fall out or dissolve on their own during this time. for sutures not designed to fall out or dissolve, Dr. Whisenant will schedule a follow-up appointment to remove the sutures.