If you have an appointment scheduled with your dentist for a tooth extraction in Marietta , you may be wondering what your recovery period will be like. If you follow your dentist’s tooth extraction aftercare instructions, you can minimize your pain after a tooth extraction, and speed up tooth extraction healing. Here are some tooth extraction care tips that will help you have a smooth recovery from a tooth extraction.

Control Tooth Extraction Pain
Your dentist may prescribe you medication that will help you control your tooth extraction pain. If he doesn’t, or if you don’t want to take prescription medication, you can take over the counter pain pills. An anti-inflammatory pain medication, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can minimize pain and swelling. You can also apply an ice bag to your face or jaw for ten minutes at a time.

Stimulate Tooth Extraction Healing
After your tooth extraction, your dentist will place gauze in your mouth over the extraction site. You should leave this gauze in place for at least four hours. Bite down gently on the gauze during this time to reduce bleeding and promote the formation of a blood clot in your tooth socket. You should not smoke or drink alcohol for at least 72 hours after your tooth extraction, as that might inhibit healing. Do not drink from a straw for the first 24 hours. You should eat soft foods for the first two days after your tooth extraction, and gradually begin eating solid foods again after tooth extraction healing has begun.

Modify Your Dental Care Routine
Do not forcefully spit or rinse your mouth out for at least 24 hours after the tooth extraction, as this may dislodge the blood clot that has formed. After 24 hours, you can gently rinse your mouth out with s solution of salt and warm water. Continue to perform regular dental care, such as brushing, flossing, and brushing your tongue, but be sure to carefully avoid the site of the tooth extraction.