Tooth Extractions

How do I prevent dry socket after tooth extraction?

When you have a tooth extracted, a blood clot develops shortly after the surgery, which is your body beginning the healing process. If this blood clot becomes dislodged before your mouth has fully healed it can cause pain, this is called dry socket.

Six tips for avoiding dry socket are:

1. Avoid straws or anything that creates a suction or large movement of air.
2. Avoid vaping, and smoking tobacco or any other substance as the fast inhalation can dislodge your blood clot, and the chemicals may prevent healing or cause an infection.
3. For the first one or two days after tooth extraction, it’s recommended that you consume only soft foods like applesauce, yogurt, and mashed potatoes.
4. Inquire about any medicines you’re taking to ensure they don’t interact with the healing process.
5. Use proper oral hygiene to keep your mouth clean and consider an antibacterial mouthwash.
6. Follow your doctor’s instructions on proper oral care to improve recovery time.

When and why are wisdom teeth removed?

Wisdom teeth are the very last teeth to develop, and they grow in the very back of the mouth. In most cases, you will start to feel these teeth emerge when you are in your late teens or early twenties. Almost everyone has these teeth removed since they tend to grow at a severely slanted angle and will likely bump into other teeth and cause crowding. There is also very little space available for these teeth. Ultimately, about 85% of adults end up having their wisdom teeth removed.

What causes the need for tooth extraction?

Tooth extraction is a procedure where a tooth is taken out from its place in the jawbone called a socket. It’s often necessary when a tooth is broken or decayed to the point that it can’t be fixed with a filling or crown.

In addition to tooth damage or decay, there are other reasons for tooth extraction such as; extra teeth blocking other teeth, baby teeth that haven’t fallen out, orthodontic treatment, wisdom teeth, or other medical reasons.

What can I eat after a tooth extraction?

After a tooth extraction, it’s important to stick to soft foods that are easy to chew and won’t irritate the extraction site. Examples include yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, soup, smoothies, and scrambled eggs. Avoid hot, spicy, and crunchy foods that could potentially dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.

Can I smoke after a tooth extraction?

Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications after a tooth extraction. It’s best to avoid smoking for at least 24 to 48 hours after the procedure and ideally for as long as possible during the healing period.