Tooth extractions are a common dental procedure. While dentists prioritize maintaining your natural teeth, there are instances where extraction is necessary for your oral health. This may be due to severe trauma or infection. An extraction is common and when necessary, can offer a variety of benefits. However, it also comes with the risk of infection. Preventing infection after an extraction is important and can be effectively done if you follow your dental provider’s instructions post-extraction. Below you will find the top tips to avoid infection after tooth extraction.
Tips to Avoid Infection After Tooth Extraction
Avoiding an infection after a tooth extraction is important for both your oral and overall health. Consider the following tips to avoid infection after tooth extraction.
Manage Post-Extraction Bleeding:
Avoid infection post-extraction by safely and effectively managing your post-extraction bleeding. Minor bleeding is common after an extraction. While this is completely normal and not a cause for a medical concern, it’s important to manage your post-extraction bleeding. Use gauze on the incision site and gently bite down. Change the gauze as frequently as you need, but be very gentle when removing and applying it to the incision site.
Take Your Prescribed Medications:
Taking the medications prescribed to you after your tooth has been extracted is a critical part of reducing your risk for an infection. You will be prescribed antibiotics and it’s important to take them as directed. Take all of your antibiotics as stopping early can reduce their effectiveness. However, if you have an adverse reaction to antibiotics or pain medication, contact your oral surgeon right away. They can prescribe you alternative medications or determine a new course of action depending on your unique issues.
Focus on Resting:
It’s beneficial to focus on resting after extraction as it can reduce your risk of infection. This includes avoiding strenuous physical activity for at least three days after your extraction. If possible, rest at home for the first day or two to allow your body to effectively heal. Giving yourself time to heal can streamline the recovery process much faster and more effectively.
Avoid Smoking:
Smoking or using other tobacco products can increase your risk of infection after tooth extraction. While you should avoid smoking altogether, be sure to quit for a few weeks before your extraction and a few weeks after. Smoking can impact the healing process as it introduces harmful bacteria into your mouth. Proper healing after an extraction is important for your oral and overall health, so avoid tobacco products if you have an extraction.
Common Signs of An Infection
Some may experience an infection after tooth extraction. Avoid waiting to contact your dental provider as early intervention is necessary to address the issue. Below you will find the common signs of an infection after an extraction.
- Excess bleeding at the extraction site
- Persistent pain that does not get better after taking pain medication
- Increased swelling in the face and jaw after the extraction
- Fever
- Discharge or pus from the extraction site
Emergency Tooth Extractions
In some cases, you may be able to schedule your extraction. However, in severe cases, emergency tooth extractions are necessary. This can be important when it comes to preserving your oral health, including your surrounding teeth. It can also be necessary for your oral health in the case that you have an infected tooth. Avoid waiting and contact the top endodontic treatment center if you think you may need an extraction. The team at Maz Endodontics have helped countless patients restore their oral health and avoid post-extraction infection.
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