We understand that the thought of needing a tooth pulled makes certain patients hesitant to come forward with their dental pain. Though we understand this aversion, modern dentistry techniques make the process much more tolerable than ever before. Our emergency dentist in Hinsdale has advice that can help make your recovery experience a bit easier.
-
Leave your gauze on for 3-4 hours.
Your dentist will ask you to bite down on a gauze pad, which will encourage clotting to occur. Bleeding typically subsides after this time period; if it does not, contact your dentist. Do not sleep with gauze in your mouth as it can become a choking hazard.
-
Prop your head up with pillows while lying down.
Elevating your head while resting or sleeping for the first 2-3 days allows for fluids to drain away from the extraction area.
-
Use an ice pack to keep swelling down.
During the first day of recovery, apply an ice pack wrapped in a clean towel to the affected area of your face.
-
Avoid straws and smoking.
Sucking on a straw can dislodge the blood clot that’s formed in the extraction site. Smoking can also disrupt healing or even lead to a condition called ‘dry socket.’
-
Eat soft foods for the first 24 hours.
Even once this period has passed, you should avoid jumping in with crunchy foods. Instead, slowly re-introduce other foods in accordance with your healing.
Contact Our Emergency Dentist in Hinsdale
We staff our office with compassionate dental care professionals. When you visit us for an emergency tooth extraction, know that you are in good hands. Contact us today to book an appointment.