Tooth extraction: how to prepare and what to do after the procedure

A good dentist does everything to carry out the least invasive treatments possible for the patient's health, preserving the teeth at all costs, but sometimes the only solution left is extraction.

How to deal with an extraction operation and how to behave in the following hours?

Tooth extraction is certainly a stressful moment for the patient. This is why it is important to know what can happen and how we can fix it.

Treatments are usually carried out in the morning, so you can check for any bleeding in the following hours. Before the session, we recommend a complete meal that provides the right energy to better deal with the anesthetic and all phases of the operation.

Cardiac patients who take drugs capable of increasing blood fluidity, in some specific cases, need a check-up with the cardiologist treating them, who will recommend whether or not to replace the therapy with other drugs and/or antibiotic prophylaxis.

Once the local anesthesia has been carried out, just relax and don't think too much about what will happen because the extraction will be painless. If you choose the right doctor, he will create a calm and safe environment.

What to do/not to do after surgery? Here are some recommendations:

* Squeeze the swab between your teeth for 30 minutes to stop any bleeding

* Apply a cold/ice compress externally on the cheek, in the area where the operation was carried out in order to reduce bleeding and reduce swelling

* Do not rinse your mouth in the following hours, to avoid breaking the clot

* Follow a liquid or semi-liquid diet, avoiding hot foods in the following days

* Do not smoke for at least 24 hours because smoking slows down the healing phase

* Avoid physical exertion

* In case of bleeding, dab with sterile gauze and contact your doctor

* In certain cases it is necessary to start antibiotic and anti-inflammatory therapy but always under medical advice and prescription

* Maintain daily oral hygiene habits, avoiding brushing on the wound

* If stitches have been placed, after about 7 days the doctor will remove them and check the healing phase.