No one wants to hear their dentist say they need an extraction; the thought of losing one or more of your teeth can be scary and stressful, to say the least. At Be Well Dental, we’ll do whatever we can to save your tooth, but if an extraction is necessary, we provide gentle, comfortable treatment.
Whether you’ve had an extraction or an implant procedure to replace your missing tooth, it’s important to know what to expect from the recovery process.
What to Expect After an Extraction
Here’s what you need to know in the days following an extraction:
- Day 1 — Some minor bleeding is normal. Apply gauze to the extraction site until the bleeding stops. You can use ice packs and an over-the-counter pain reliever for any discomfort or swelling. Stick to soft foods, and be sure to rest.
- Days 2-3 — The bleeding should have stopped by now, but you may still be experiencing minor discomfort and swelling. Continue to use ice packs or take an over-the-counter pain medication. Avoid any hard foods so you don’t disrupt the blood clot in the extraction site.
- Days 4-7 — By this time, you should be feeling much better. You can begin to eat a regular diet, but we recommend chewing on the opposite side of your mouth.
What to Expect After an Implant Procedure
Here’s what you need to know in the days following an implant procedure:
- Days 1-2 — During the first 48 hours after implant placement, you should use ice packs to reduce any swelling. Also, take prescribed medications to alleviate discomfort. We recommend only soft foods, such as yogurt, smoothies or eggs. For any bleeding, bite down gently on gauze. Be sure to get plenty of rest.
- Day 3 — You may still have some swelling, but you should be feeling much better by the third day. You can introduce some other foods, but be careful to avoid anything sticky or hard.
- Day 7 — After a week, your dentist will remove any remaining stitches. For best results, continue chewing on the opposite side of your mouth.
Looking for Quality Dental Care in Highgate Hill, QLD?
If you live in Highgate Hill, Brisbane or the surrounding area, the experienced dental team at Be Well Dental would love to welcome you to their modern dental clinic. We strive to help every patient achieve lifelong oral health and a smile they can be proud of.
To book a visit with us, feel free to call us on (07) 3846 2002.