If you’ve recently had a tooth extracted by Dr. Matthew Aldridge or Dr. Christopher A. Madani at Oasis Dental, proper aftercare is essential for a quick and complication-free recovery. Following your dentist’s instructions carefully in the days after your procedure can help prevent dry sockets, infections, excessive bleeding, and other issues. While it’s important to follow all personalized guidelines provided closely, you should generally avoid certain activities and behaviors after tooth extractions in Ridgefield. Here are five things you’ll want to skip for optimal healing:
Vigorous Physical Activity
For at least the first 24-48 hours after your extraction, it’s best to take it easy and rest as much as possible. That means avoiding exercise, heavy lifting, bending over, or anything strenuous. Too much physical activity can dislodge the protective blood clot that forms over the extraction site, causing dry sockets and significant pain.
Instead, spend a couple of days resting and relaxing. Put off that workout or yard work until after the first few days of healing. It’s essential to keep your blood pressure stable in the initial stages.
Drinking Through a Straw
The sucking motion required to drink through a straw can also potentially dislodge the blood clot and delay healing. The same goes for smoking or vaping—don’t risk the negative pressure in your mouth by inhaling through a straw or pipe.
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, but use a cup or glass and avoid sucking motions. You’ll also need to put down the milkshakes for a few days. Wait until the socket has fully closed over before enjoying those thick beverages again.
Consuming Hard, Crunchy Foods
After your tooth extraction in Ridgefield, WA, you’ll want to stick to a soft food diet for at least the first few days. That means avoiding anything hard, crunchy, chewy, or sharp that could irritate, puncture, or get stuck in the extraction site.
Chips, nuts, hard taco shells, crusty bread, and raw veggies should be off-limits until the area heals. Start with cool, soft options like yogurt, milkshakes (no straw!), pudding, eggs, smoothies, ice cream, pasta, and more. Then slowly reintroduce your regular diet.
Using a Mouthwash Containing Alcohol
Many patients use mouthwash as part of their regular oral hygiene routine. However, the alcohol and other ingredients in many rinses can irritate the sensitive extraction site and impede healing after a tooth is pulled.
For the first few days, it’s best to avoid commercial mouthwashes and rinses. Use warm salt water to gently swish and rinse your mouth, or stick with plain water. Your dentist can advise when it’s okay to start using your regular rinse again.
Touching the Area With Your Tongue/Fingers
It will be tempting to poke around at the extraction site with your tongue or fingers, especially if it still feels a bit numb from the anesthesia. However, fibers and debris from your fingers can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection, and your tongue could disrupt the clotting process.
Do your best to avoid that area with objects other than soft foods. Don’t prod or pick at the socket, and be very gentle when brushing teeth near the surgical site until it’s fully closed and healed.
Prioritize Post-Op Care at Oasis Dental
In the days following your tooth extraction at Oasis Dental in Ridgefield, taking it easy and following these precautions can help ensure a smooth experience. The friendly team at our Ridgefield dental office will provide full post-operative instructions tailored to your specific case.
With Dr. Matthew Aldridge, Dr. Christopher A. Madani, and our highly skilled staff on your side, you can expect expert care every step of the way. From your initial consultation through your procedure and recovery, we prioritize patient comfort and satisfaction.
While some temporary swelling and discomfort are normal, severe pain, excessive bleeding, or you should immediately bring other concerns to our attention. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions—we’re here to support you throughout the healing process.
Tooth Extractions Ridgefield
Tooth extractions in Ridgefield, WA, can restore oral health and relieve when needed. With proper post-op care, you’ll return to your normal routine in no time! Trust the team at Oasis Dental to guide you every step of the way. We also offer expert tooth replacement options like dental bridges and dental implants. Schedule an appointment today!