For most people, recovering from tooth extractions is a smooth process that takes anywhere from one to two weeks. In certain cases, though, a painful complication known as dry socket develops; it occurs when the blood clot at an extraction site does not form properly or gets prematurely dislodged. Fortunately, most cases of dry socket can be prevented. Here are some tips that can help you enjoy an easier recovery process:
Do Not Smoke or Use Tobacco Products
Smoking and other tobacco products can slow healing and increase the risk of dry socket. The suction from inhaling may loosen the protective blood clot, while chemicals in tobacco can interfere with healthy blood flow to the extraction site. If you are struggling to quit tobacco use, talk to your dental care team or primary care physician for guidance.
Do Not Drink Through a Straw
Using a straw creates suction in your mouth, which can pull the blood clot out of place before the socket has had time to heal. For the first few days after your extraction, sip beverages directly from a cup. You should also avoid forceful spitting and swishing.
Eat a Soft Diet
Choose foods that are easy to chew and unlikely to disturb the extraction site, such as yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, smoothies, and brothy or blended soups. Stay away from crunchy, sticky, spicy, or very hot foods until your dental team says it is safe to return to your normal diet.
Be Gentle During Oral Hygiene Tasks
Keeping your mouth clean is important, but you should take care not to disturb the healing socket. Brush and floss the rest of your teeth as directed, but avoid scrubbing near the extraction site, and rinse carefully according to your care team’s instructions.
Avoid Strenuous Physical Activity
Exercise, heavy lifting, and intense physical activity can raise your blood pressure and contribute to bleeding at the extraction site. Plan to rest during the early stage of recovery, then gradually return to your usual routine according to your dentist’s guidance.
Follow Other Post-Op Instructions from Your Care Team
Your dental team may provide personalized instructions based on the type of extraction you had, your medical history, and any medications you take. Follow those directions closely, take prescribed medications as instructed, and call the office if you notice worsening pain, prolonged bleeding, fever, or any symptom that seems unusual.
You do not want dry socket to interfere with your recovery after a tooth extraction! Use the tips in this blog post to increase your chances of a smooth and complication-free post-op experience.
Meet the Practice
At Boston Prosthodontics Dental Group, our five specialists work together to provide a range of advanced services, including tooth extractions, tooth replacement, and more. If you have questions about how we can serve you or how you can enjoy successful recovery after an upcoming procedure, we would be happy to speak with you. Contact our team at 617-523-5451.