If your face swells after a tooth extraction, apply an ice pack to the affected area for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off, during the first 24 hours. After 48 hours, switch to a warm compress. Avoid smoking and eat soft, nutritious foods.
If swelling persists or increases after three days, or if severe pain, fever, or chills occur, contact your dentist immediately, as these could be signs of an infection.
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What to Expect in Terms of Swelling?
After a tooth extraction, it’s normal to experience swelling in the face. This swelling typically peaks around the second or third day post-procedure. Along with swelling, you may notice some skin discolouration, which should fade as the swelling decreases. If swelling persists or worsens after three days, it’s important to contact your dentist, as this could indicate an infection.
Taking Care of Your Mouth After a Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction, like wisdom tooth removal, can be a painful procedure. Your mouth becomes quite sensitive. If you’ve had a tooth extracted, you’ll need to take special care of your mouth. Even on the first day, doing certain things can help you feel better and heal faster.
Immediately following the extraction of a tooth
- To stop the bleeding, place a gauze pad over the surgical site.
- Take OTC pain relievers and prescribed medication.
- Keep strenuous activity to a minimum for the day.
- To reduce swelling, alternate applying ice packs to your cheek for 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off.
- Avoid spitting, smoking, or using a straw to prevent accidentally dislodging the blood clot for at least a week.
48 hours after the extraction
- Drinking straws are not to be used.
- Avoid smoking.
- Do NOT agitate the extraction site with your tongue or fingers.
What are the Benefits of Not Smoking After Tooth Extraction?
Cigarette smoke contains chemical toxins that can cause gum and mouth tissue damage and delay healing. If you smoke and expose your healing gums to these toxins, serious complications such as dry socket, inflammation, or infection can occur.
When do I need to be concerned about swelling after a tooth extraction?
Swelling is common after surgery, and it won’t reach its peak for another 2-3 days. However, using ice packs right away can help to reduce swelling. Apply an ice pack or a zipper-lock bag filled with ice to the sides of the face where surgery was performed. Contact Dentist Ellenbrook for professional advice and care if you’re concerned about swelling or any unusual symptoms.
What is the most common complication following tooth extraction?
The most common complication following tooth extraction is a condition known as a dry socket. This occurs when the blood clot that normally forms in the socket after extraction is dislodged, exposing the underlying bone and nerves, and can result in severe pain and delayed healing.
Coolamon Dental Centre offers family-friendly dental care – from cosmetic dentistry to affordable dental implants and general dental care. We take the time to listen to you and offer the right solution for you.
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