How to Get Ready for a Tooth Extraction: Essential Tips from a Dentist

Anytime we hear ‘tooth extraction’, an alarm goes off. The fear of pain, loss of teeth, bleeding, and future complications in healing make us lose our cool. 

But tooth extractions don’t need to be intimidating. Following the right preparation for the extraction can turn this nerve-wracking process into an easy-peasy one. 

Let’s check out the list of tips to follow before and after tooth extraction to prevent dental complications and speed up healing:

Schedule a Pre-Extraction Consultation

Your dentist might have already advised you of a tooth extraction during a routine check. If so, don’t just nod in approval and return home. You must:  

• Ask about the reason for the extraction 
• Talk about available alternatives
• Let the dentist know about your medical history, allergies, and ongoing medicines
• Get an explanation of the procedure 
• Know more about the recovery process
• Request sedation options 

Follow Dietary Restrictions Before the Procedure

Tooth extractions come with a set of dos and don’ts that make the process safe and make your healing faster. So you should: 

• Stop eating or drinking for at least 6-8 hours before surgery to help the sedation work fine
• Opt for light, nutritious meals the night before
• Drink enough water before extraction but skip caffeinated or alcoholic beverages

Plan for the Recovery Period

Your tooth extraction is successful when you ditch complications during your pre and post-surgery days. It’s time to be vigilant with: 

• Transportation post-extraction for safe home return as the effects of sedation may not subside for quite some hours
• Soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup. Your diet must cover 100% of them. 
• Recovery and swelling. You must have cold compresses ready beside you to reduce gum and jaw inflammation. 
• Your rest area at home. Get rest as much as possible post-surgery for quick recovery from the pain.  
• Strenuous activities. Say no to them for at least 24-48 hours post-operation.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene Before Surgery

Tooth extraction is no reason to let your oral care routine go for a toss. Rather it’s the time when you must pay close attention to your daily brushing and flossing routine to keep the extraction site germ-free.

• You should also avoid smoking or vaping at least a day before the procedure.
• Never forget to rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash post-meals.

Follow Post-Extraction Care Instructions

From the day you have the extraction planned till the day you’re pain-free, you must abide by the tips to follow before and after tooth extraction. During post-operation, you must:  

• Bite on gauze to control bleeding
• Apply ice packs on your jaw to minimize jaw swell
• Timely intake of the pain relievers and antibiotics as prescribed by your dentist
• Avoid using straws, spitting, or smoking to prevent dry socket
• Arrange follow-up appointments with the dentist to monitor your dental health

Proper preparation makes tooth extraction less stressful and recovery smoother. For any concerns or instructions on the same, consulting a local dentist helps in achieving a successful outcome.