Dentists prefer to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible. However, there are moments when an extraction is the best and only solution for your oral health. For example, if your tooth has been severely affected by decay or damaged in an accident, then your dentist may have no other choice than to remove it. Other times, extraction is necessary to complete a treatment, such as in the case of braces for crowded teeth. Finally, extractions may also be necessary if you have an impacted wisdom tooth that is causing you pain and discomfort. 

Whatever the reasons, you may be feeling a bit anxious about the procedure. Don’t worry! Tooth extractions in Wauwatosa are simple, fast, and generally-pain free. What matters most is how you care for the extraction site after the procedure to avoid infections. 

Here are some tips. 

Take It Easy

Tooth extraction may not be a complicated medical procedure, but still, your body has been through a bit of trauma and needs time to heal. 

The best thing you can do to speed up your recovery is to allow your body to rest and heal. Take a day off if possible, and pamper yourself. Stay in bed, watch TV, and let your family or friends take care of you. Avoid any strenuous physical activities and take it easy for a few days. 

Eat Only Soft Foods for the First Few Days 

Avoid hard and crunchy foods for a few days. You don’t want any food particles to get stuck in the extraction site and cause an infection. Stick to a diet that’s made of soft, but rich and nutritious foods, such as cream soups, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and yogurt. Gradually, you can add foods with a bit more texture, such as scrambled eggs, pasta, or oatmeal.

Don’t Eat on the Extraction Site 

Avoid eating on the extraction site for about a week to give the wound enough time to heal. This way, you will also avoid any food particles getting stuck in there and causing unnecessary trouble. 

Don’t Drink Through a Straw 

You may be tempted to drink through a straw to avoid contact with the extraction site, particularly if your dentist advised you to stay away from hot beverages for a few days. But, the pressure you create in your mouth when sucking through a straw can dislodge the blood clot and lead to a very painful condition known as Dry Socket. 

Don’t Smoke

Smoking will not only slow down the recovery period, but the act of sucking the smoke from a cigarette can dislodge the blood clot and cause Dry Socket. 

Use OTC Medication to Manage Your Pain 

Pain in the first couple of days after an extraction is normal and can be easily managed with OTC medication. You can also use a cold compress or eat ice cream to reduce your discomfort. 

When To Call Your Dentist 

Get in touch with your Wauwatosa dentist at McCue Dental Health if your pain is increasing and not going away or if you notice any swelling around the extraction site. 

You can call us at (414) 456-1091 or send us a message online.