Tooth Extractions and Improper Healing: What Signs to Look For

A tooth extraction in Orlando is not an uncommon procedure for your dentist to perform. While he will do everything possible to try and save your natural tooth from being removed, it is sometimes the only remaining option. To keep your oral health from continuing to decline, this procedure often serves as a necessary step and “last resort” to save your smile. But what if the recovery process isn’t as swift and easy as you hoped? How can you tell if problems are developing because of your extraction, and what you should do? A local dentist explains what signs may point to a problematic recovery and how your dental professional can mitigate the issue before it’s too late.

Days After Surgery: What You Should Do to Heal Safely and Quickly

Most people who undergo a tooth extraction never experience any issues. As long as you follow your dentist’s detailed instructions, you will begin to heal just fine without any problems. After having a tooth removed, it is necessary for a blood clot to form as well as granulation tissue. This serves as a protective barrier around your extraction site, which typically forms one week after surgery. Because new bone can take time to regenerate (about 8 weeks), this tissue can help to prevent any damage to the blood clot.

To ensure your recovery and healing time are a success, make sure to follow these steps:

• Get plenty of rest in the few days after your surgery. You might try elevating your head slightly.
• Allow the gauze in your mouth to remain in place for several hours to encourage the formation of a blood clot.
• Do not spit or rinse out your mouth immediately after your surgery or use a straw, as this can dislodge the clot.
• Avoid smoking or using tobacco products of any kind.
• Try to keep from blowing your nose or sneezing.
• If necessary, take an over-the-counter pain reliever to minimize discomfort and keep swelling down.
• You can also use a cold compress or ice pack to minimize inflammation.

Troublesome Recovery: Be on the Lookout for These Signs

On average, the recovery process for tooth extraction is 10 days; however, this can vary from person to person. If at any point during this nearly two-week span, you begin to experience any of the following signs, contact your emergency dentist in Orlando as soon as possible:

• You develop a dry socket, which means the blood clot dislodged from the extraction site.
• The pain and swelling do not dissipate or minimize over time.
• You continue to experience serious bleeding that does not decrease.
• You begin to experience nausea, a high fever, or vomiting.
• You begin to feel pain extending into your ear.
• The drainage coming from the wound presents a foul odor or taste.

It’s important that you inform your dentist before surgery if you have a compromised immune system, as this can make it more difficult for you to heal.

By following the necessary steps outlined by your dentist, you can expect to resume your normal activity soon enough. Being mindful not to rush the recovery process is important, so take your time and make sure your smile is in the best condition when you return to see your dentist for a follow-up appointment.

About the Author

Dr. John E. Russo earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Central Florida before achieving his dental DMD degree with honors from the University of Florida in 1993. He also earned his Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) from Wright-Patterson Medical Center at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

Having performed hundreds of tooth extractions in the years he has been practicing, Dr. Russo can make the process much simpler and easier for you to heal successfully. To find out whether you or a loved one need a tooth removed to save your smile, visit our website or call (407) 470-1224.

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