How to Care for a Tooth Abstraction

An often-used expression to describe something that is very painful and difficult is to say it "is like pulling teeth." If you have ever had a tooth pulled, then you know how accurate this comparison is. A tooth abstraction can be excruciating after the sedative has worn off. You should take certain precautions and steps to prevent any infections and complications, and to lessen the pain and facilitate the healing process.

Things You'll Need

• Gauze
• Cold compress or ice pack
• Thin towel or washcloth

Instructions

1. Regularly change the gauze that the dentist has given you to curb bleeding.

2. Wash the area gently, if necessary, with plain, cool water.

3. Press the cold compress covered with a towel next to the cheek on the side of the abstraction.

4. Keep the abstraction area free of any food or beverage for at least 8 hours. A blood clot forms naturally as the abstraction area heals, and it is necessary that this clot remain undisturbed.

5. Take any medication approved by the dentist who performed your operation.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to avoid touching the abstraction area with your tongue or fingers.

• Brush your teeth as usual, but avoid the abstraction area and teeth surrounding it.

• Perform the steps included in this article for as many days as the doctor recommends. The bleeding should stop after a day or two, so you should not need or use the gauze after that. However, if bleeding persist longer than two days, contact your physician.

• Don't apply the cold compress directly to your cheek as this may damage the nerves or impede the healing process. Always cover the compress with a thin towel or washcloth.

• Don't smoke, drink or chew gum for at least 24 hours after the abstraction. Any activity that may agitate the area is prohibited for a day.

References

• American Dental Association: Tooth Extractions