Emergency Dentist: How Do I Heal My Gums After Tooth Extraction?

Most of us have gotten a tooth extraction done at least once in our adulthood. During our childhood days, we used to follow remedies suggested by our elders for post-tooth extraction healing. But now, as adults, we can take care of our gums and avoid complications.

Here are some tips that can help you heal your gums after a tooth extraction is done:

Use the Cold Therapy
Apply an ice pack on the outside of your mouth, on the cheek near the extracted tooth area. Do this for about 10-15 at least 4 times a day. This helps in reducing the swelling and relieving the pain.

Prevent your Mouth Drying Out
It is important to keep your mouth hydrated as dry mouth can increase irritation and pain in the gums. Avoid breathing with your mouth open as it dries up the saliva. Drink water often and keep your mouth hydrated.

Drink Cold Beverages
Avoid drinking cold drinks, sodas, smoothies, etc. These sugary and carbonated drinks can trigger bacterial growth which leads to various dental problems. Drink cold water and coconut water for a few days to soothe the gums.

Eat Soft Foods
Chewing can apply pressure to the gums that are affected due to tooth extraction. But, eating nothing and starving can cause lack of necessary nutrition. Hence, consume soft foods and semi-solid items that don't exert much pressure on the gums.

Use Salt Water Rinse
Don’t rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours as salt can cause ulcers around the tooth extracted area. After 24 hours, rinse your mouth with salt water at least 3 times a day. Try to rinse after every meal to clean the mouth. Do not spit out forcefully as this can apply pressure on the healing gums.

Sleep at an Elevated Position
Keep your head at an elevation in order to reduce your head's blood pressure, help the blood to clot, gums to heal, and at the same time, reduce blood loss. Use 2-3 pillows when sleeping so that your head is elevated.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Oral hygiene is crucial so that the wounds don’t develop infections and allow bacteria growth. Avoid flossing near the extracted tooth for a week. Brush as usual but try to apply the least amount of pressure while brushing that area.

Avoid Smoking
Nicotine and carbon dioxide in cigarettes can the hinder the natural healing process of gums after tooth extraction. Also, the sucking motion of smoking interferes the process of blood clotting as it applies pressure to that area.
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Various medications are available that help in healing gums after a tooth extraction. It is best to consume any medicine prescribed by our Emergency Dentists to avoid any further problems. You can also book an appointment with our dentists to know more about post-tooth extraction care.

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