If your dentist recommends tooth extraction, you will need to plan some downtime so that you can recover from this oral surgery. As the surgical site heals, a blood clot forms that should not be dislodged or disturbed. If this occurs, a painful condition called dry socket can formulate.
Dry socket can cause immense discomfort and will require dental intervention to amend, so you should take precautions to stop this condition from developing. Dr. Ira Goldberg, a dentist in Succasunna, NJ, offers advice in avoiding dry socket after a tooth extraction procedure.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
The primary advice a dentist will offer in aftercare guidelines following a tooth extraction procedure will include practicing good oral hygiene to keep your mouth clean. Prompt removal of plaque build-up can lower the risk of bacterial spread and infection.
However, you should brush and floss your teeth carefully after this surgery because harsh oral hygiene methods could dislodge the blood clot over the surgical site. If you remain gentle in that specific area of your mouth, you should be able to both keep your mouth sanitized and avoid painful side effects.
Avoid Sucking Movements
The combination of airflow and muscle movement involved in performing a sucking motion with your mouth could disturb the blood clot over a healing tooth extraction site. For this reason, your dentist will ask you not to use a straw for approximately one week after your oral surgery.
You should avoid smoking after tooth extraction because the action of inhaling creates a similar issue. It may be a good idea to cut back on your smoking habits prior to your procedure to make it easier to abstain from this behavior during your recovery period.
Eat Soft Foods
Your mouth may feel sore after a tooth extraction procedure, and soft-textured foods will be the most comfortable food choice during this time. Dentists encourage these patients to eat foods like yogurt and applesauce because hard, sticky, and chewy foods may disturb a healing blood clot. You may be able to eat more solid foods the day after your surgery if you are careful and do not feel pain.
Consult Your Dentist in Succasunna, NJ
Morris County Dental Associates provides tooth extraction procedures and other general dentistry services to qualified patients. Dr. Goldberg is an expert dentist in Succasunna, NJ, specializing in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, including tooth replacement treatments. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 973.298.5893.