How To Prepare For Tooth Extraction, Prevent Pain, And Heal Faster

Dec 20, 2022 | Tooth Extraction

Do you recall how thrilling it was as a child to lose a tooth? In a sense, it was a requirement to enter the first grade. Additionally, the tooth fairy would reward you with money!

Adult tooth loss is not particularly glamorous. You get uncomfortable gloved hands in your mouth instead of high-fives and monetary rewards. Although tooth extraction can be frightening, it goes more smoothly if you are well-prepared for it in advance. 

How To Prepare For A Tooth Extraction

To prepare for tooth extraction, there are a few crucial things you can do to make it a less painful experience. 

1. Clear Your Doubts With Your Dentist

Ask a question if you have one! When you consult your oral surgeon or dentist for tooth extraction, bring a list of all the questions you want to ask. As a result, you will be able to confirm if you fully understand the procedure of tooth extraction.

No question is too ridiculous. It is your dentist’s responsibility is to make you feel at ease. After all, they are operating on your mouth, and you have a right to be informed of every aspect of the treatment.

2. Share Your Entire Medical History and Conditions With Your Dentist

You must share your medical history and health concerns with your dentist before you opt for a tooth extraction. Sharing your details is necessary before your tooth extraction process begins. Be elaborative and specific about the information related to:

  • Bacterial endocarditis
  • Congenital heart defect
  • Mechanical or biomechanical heart valves
  • Liver disease
  • Artificial joint replacements
  • Impaired immune system

It is also crucial for your dentist to have a thorough list of all your current medications to prevent potential drug interactions. For example, your dentist may advise you to stop taking any blood thinners before the consultation if you are currently using them. Blood thinners can delay recovery after tooth extraction.

3. Do Not Eat Before The Surgery

You shouldn’t consume anything for 12 hours before the surgery. This can reduce the feeling of nausea both during and after the treatment. If you have a medical condition, such as diabetes, that prevents you from fasting, inform your dental surgeon.

How To Manage Pain & Heal Faster After A Tooth Extraction

Compared to earlier times, tooth extractions today are far less painful and intrusive. However, they can still be painful. Therefore, you should take the time to take good care of your oral health while the wound is still open. Here is what you can do to ease your pain and heal faster after tooth extraction.

1. Do Not Touch The wound & Keep The Gauze In Place

The freshly formed gap will probably make your mouth feel odd. But resist the impulse to stick your tongue in the wound, and especially refrain from sticking your fingers to the wound. 

Even a slight touch might interrupt the blood clot and slow down healing. If your dentist has placed gauze over the wound, leave it in place for two hours unless otherwise instructed. When the clot has formed, and all bleeding has stopped, remove the gauze carefully after two hours. 

2. Take Enough Rest

To heal more quickly, try to get some rest. If feasible, skip the rest of the day’s work and refrain from any form of exercise for at least 24 hours. Any activity that increases heart rate increases the chance of the wound reopening.

3. Take Only Prescribed Painkillers

Take painkillers that are prescribed by your dentist, as some painkillers like aspirin work as a blood thinner which slows down the healing process. Therefore, it is advised that you stick to the painkillers prescribed by your dentist.

4. Refrain From Smoking & Drinking

It’s crucial to keep in mind that you must refrain from smoking for 12 hours before and 24 hours following the procedure. Smoking after the procedure will delay the healing process and increase your risk of a “dry socket,” a serious condition requiring immediate attention. The consumption of alcohol may also slow down clot formation, cause new bleeding, and delay healing. 

5. Eat Soft Food

You may not feel particularly hungry after an extraction, but if you do, eat soft foods to prevent chewing problems. Avoid anything with a hard or chewy feel, such as raw fruits, vegetables, or candies.

Planning To Get Tooth Extraction In Phoenix?

We recognize that most people are anxious before having their teeth pulled. We need your faith since, as dental professionals, we are completely aware of what goes into removing teeth quickly and painlessly. We are here to ensure that your experience is as pleasant as possible, and we’ll walk you through every step of the process. If you have any inquiries concerning tooth extractions in Phoenix or want to arrange a consultation, we welcome you to visit us at our dental office in Phoenix.

Social Media

Ready To Schedule A Consult?

4025 W. Bell Road Suite #4
Phoenix, AZ 85053
» Get Directions

New Patients: (480) 744-3881
Existing Patients: (602) 978-6910
Fax: 602-978-6920

Get In Touch