Extraction Aftercare
Care Instructions
In order to aid healing and reduce the risk of complications:
- Keep bite pad in place for 30mins, then remove. If wound is still bleeding insert new pad for further 30mins, making sure to bite down
- Place ice pack on the area for 20mins, then off for 20mins, alternating
- Avoid rinsing for at least 4 hours
- Maintain a soft diet and good hydration
- Keep away from alcohol and smoking for 24 hours following the procedure
- The day after, commence frequent warm salt water rinses and continue for a week
- Rest is essential for healing, so refrain from undue exercise
- Avoid aspirin as it thins the blood
- If sutures have been inserted, do not disturb
- If bleeding continues or you experience severe pain, call us
- If antibiotics have been prescribed, follow all pharmacy instructions and complete the full course. After completion of the course, take a good quality probiotic to restore inner health.
Risks of Missing Teeth
The gap created by losing a tooth can impact your oral health. Possible complications:
- Dry socket / Poor healing
- Bone loss – both height and width
- Drifting of adjacent teeth
- Mobile surrounding teeth
- Over eruption of opposing tooth (bite collapse)
- Facial collapse and premature ageing
- Impaired chewing function
What next?
If you’re interested in replacing your lost tooth and restoring normal function, we can discuss which of the available solutions will suit you.
- Dentures
- Bridges
- Single implants
- Implant-supported bridges or dentures
Pain Management
If you have pain following the removal of a tooth, the following pain medications can help:
- Paracetamol
- Ibuprofen
- Panadeine
- Difflam rinse
Beneficial Supplements
There are supplements which can improve the healing process after the removal of a tooth. We recommend using the following supplements to minimise healing time.
- Arnica (cream/spray/tablets) increases blood flow and reduces pain and swelling
- Vitamin C essential in wound healing
- Zinc reduces inflammation and bacterial growth
- Calcium important for bone health
- Bromelain anti-inflammatory enzyme that reduces swelling
Our number one goal is to put your mind at ease during what we know can be an unsettling experience for some.
Still have concerns? Call us and we can discuss your options with you.