There’s good reason people often compare difficult tasks to “pulling teeth.” Without the right tools and medication, tooth extractions can be a nightmarish experience. However, the combination of modern medicine and experienced hands will ensure that your tooth extractions are relatively painless. But after you leave the dentist office after your extractions, it’ll be up to you to ensure that your extraction sites remain pain-free. Take a look at some of the aftercare tips your dentist will provide you to ensure that your discomfort is kept to a minimum after a tooth extraction.
Managing Pain after the Procedure
While you’ll get a better idea here about what to expect, your doctor will go over aftercare guidance during your appointment and will send you home with instructions so that you won’t forget any steps.
These are some of the instructions your doctor will leave you with after your tooth extraction:
· Take your pain killers. Basic, over-the-counter painkiller should sufficiently mute the pain and will help keep down the inflammation.
· Bite on the gauze covering the extraction site to help a clot form so that the bleeding stop.
· Replace the gauze if it becomes to bloody. If the gauze isn’t enough to stop the bleeding, you’ll need to contact your doctor.
· Ice the extraction site, applying a bag of ice to the area for 10- to 15- minute intervals
· Skip the hot drinks, at least for the first day or two
· Get plenty of sleep to promote healing
· Keep your head elevated to keep the pressure off the extraction site and the clot forming there
What About Pain During the Procedure?
During the procedure, you won’t have to worry about any discomfort. You’ll be given a shot of a local anesthetic that will completely numb the extraction site. You’ll be able to feel pressure from the dentist’s hands, but nothing that qualifies as “painful.” And if you’re worried you’ll feel anxious during your procedure, talk to your dentist about IV sedation.
More on Tooth Extractions in Van Nuys, CA
Take a moment to schedule a consultation with a local dentist in Southern California to learn more about what to expect from having tooth extractions in Van Nuys, CA.