Dental Extraction Pain

Dental extractions can be a traumatic experience, especially if you're conscious during the procedure. However, if you don't take proper care of your teeth after the procedure, the problem is just beginning. Proper pain management, correct nutrition and avoiding certain habits during the healing process are essential to recovery after a dental extraction. Just as important, keep your dentist's contact information nearby, and don't hesitate to contact him if the pain persists or worsens.

Expectations

• It's common to experience pain after a dental extraction, so don't panic. The first thing to do when you get out of the office is pick up any prescribed pain medication and soft foods you may need, and get into bed. Plenty of bed rest will help you heal.

  This works better if you have someone to assist you. Foods such as pudding and mashed potatoes are great choices. Stay away from foods with small pieces, such as cole slaw, as these food particles can find their way into your open wound. Also, be sure to load up on non-carbonated beverages.

Warning

• It is absolutely essential not to agitate the open wound in the days following your procedure. As mentioned earlier, stay away from carbonated beverages. It also is essential to refrain from smoking or using straws for two weeks. The suction of these actions will prevent your open wound from healing.

  In addition to slowing the healing of your wound, smoking and straw use can lead to dry sockets, an extremely painful experience commonly recognized by a persistent, throbbing pain. This pain can often keep you up for hours overnight. If you suspect dry sockets, immediately contact your dentist, who may pack the wound and prescribe painkillers.

Pain Management

• In highly painful situations, your dentist may prescribe pain medications. However, most mild to moderate pain can be managed with ibuprofen, typically in larger-than-normal doses such as 800 milligrams. However, consult your dentist before undertaking any medication for pain management.

Keeping Clean

• Gently brush your teeth consistently after the procedure, and, if prescribed, use a gentle microbial rinse. Otherwise, you may make a gentle rinse using warm saltwater. Avoid commercial mouthwashes made of alcohol until your wound and gums are healed. Proper hygiene is essential to a healthy recovery.

Considerations

• It will take about two weeks for the wound to heal, and three to four weeks for the gums surrounding the wound to fully retain their strength. In fact, it may take six to eight months for the bone around the operated area to heal, depending on the work that was done. Be sure to keep your follow-up appointments with your dentist to ensure that your recovery is going as planned.