How to Care for a Tooth Abstraction

An often-used expression to describe something that is very painful and difficult is to say it "is like pulling teeth." If you have ever had a tooth pulled, then you know how accurate this comparison is. A tooth abstraction can be excruciating after the sedative has worn off. You should take certain precautions and steps to prevent any infections and complications, and to lessen the pain and facilitate the healing process.

Things You'll Need

• Gauze
• Cold compress or ice pack
• Thin towel or washcloth

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Instructions

• 1

  Regularly change the gauze that the dentist has given you to curb bleeding.

• 2

  Wash the area gently, if necessary, with plain, cool water.

• 3

  Press the cold compress covered with a towel next to the cheek on the side of the abstraction.

• 4

  Keep the abstraction area free of any food or beverage for at least 8 hours. A blood clot forms naturally as the abstraction area heals, and it is necessary that this clot remain undisturbed.

• 5

  Take any medication approved by the dentist who performed your operation.