After undergoing a dental extraction, it is crucial to carefully follow the post-operative instructions, especially during the first 24 to 32 hours. This initial period is key to avoiding complications, speeding up healing, and ensuring an optimal recovery. Below, we explain why these care guidelines are so important and the steps you should take.
Why is it so important to take care of the wound after a dental extraction?
- Bleeding control:
After an extraction, a blood clot forms at the site of the procedure. This clot acts as a natural barrier that protects the area, prevents infections, and initiates the healing process. If this clot becomes dislodged or dissolves prematurely, you may experience a complication called dry socket, which is painful and delays recovery. - Prevention of infections:
The wound created by the extraction is a potential entry point for bacteria. Following proper care significantly reduces the risk of infections. - Pain and swelling reduction:
Post-operative care helps minimize discomfort and swelling, allowing you to resume your activities with greater comfort. - Promoting fast and effective healing:
The first few hours are essential for the tissue to begin regenerating properly and to prevent complications that may prolong the healing process.
Essential care during the first 24-32 hours
- Bleeding control:
- Keep the gauze placed by the clinic firmly bitten for at least 30-60 minutes after the extraction. If the bleeding persists, replace it with a new sterile gauze and gently bite down again for another 30-60 minutes.
- Evita escupir con fuerza o usar sorbetes (popotes), ya que estas acciones generan presión que podría desplazar el coágulo de sangre.
- Rest:
- Rest and avoid intense physical activities. Physical exertion can increase blood flow and cause bleeding at the wound site.
- Application of cold:
- Place an ice pack wrapped in a cloth on your cheek, near the treated area, for 15-minute intervals (15 minutes with ice and 15 minutes without). This helps reduce swelling and pain.
- Avoid hot foods and beverages:
- During the first 24-32 hours, opt for cold foods, such as yogurt, ice cream without chunks, or cold soups. Hot foods can dissolve the clot and delay healing.
- Maintain good oral hygiene:
- Do not brush or use mouthwash during the first 24 hours. Starting on the second day, rinse gently with warm water and salt (half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of water) after each meal. You can also use your regular mouthwash.
- En caso de utilizar un enjuague con Clorhexidina, se recomienda utilizarlo como máximo 10 días, ya que puede teñir los dientes
- Cepilla los dientes alejados de la zona de extracción con mucho cuidado.
- Avoid smoking and consuming alcohol:
- Smoking and alcohol interfere with healing and increase the risk of infections. It is essential to avoid them for at least the first 72 hours.
- Fumar puede producir alteraciones del coágulo e interferir en la cicatrización normal. Yo desaconsejo fumar, es importante plantearse dejar de fumar para siempre.
- Take the prescribed medications:
- Follow the instructions for the medications prescribed to you, whether for pain control or infection prevention. There are times when I only recommend an anti-inflammatory or pain reliever, but no antibiotics, usually in simple extractions where there is no active infection. If in doubt, read my blog and pharmaceutical recommendations for patients.
Care after the first 32 hours following the extraction:
- Avoid solid or hard foods: To avoid injuring the affected area.
- Do not rinse forcefully: After 32 hours, you need to maintain very good oral hygiene. Rinse your mouth 2-3 times a day, doing it gently to avoid dislodging the clot that forms at the extraction site.
- Avoid smoking These actions can delay healing and increase the risk of infections and dry socket.
- Apply cold compresses: If there is swelling, apply cold compresses to the outside of the cheek for the first 24-48 hours.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth gently, avoiding the extraction site. You can also use a mild mouthwash or one recommended by your dentist.
- Evitar esfuerzos físicos intensos: Descansa y evita actividades que requieran mucho esfuerzo para no aumentar el flujo sanguíneo en la zona aunque puedes comenzar a realizar deporte progresivamente .
- Medications: If you were prescribed pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, or antibiotics, make sure to take them as instructed, especially the antibiotics.
- Oral mobility exercises: Starting on the third day, you can begin performing gentle oral mobility exercises to restore normal jaw movement. Typically, it will take you one week to return to normal, sometimes up to two weeks.
Warning signs:
Although initial discomfort is normal, consult your dentist immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Severe pain that does not improve with pain relievers.
- Excessive and continuous bleeding after several hours.
- Extreme swelling or the presence of pus.
- Fever or general discomfort.
Remember that these care instructions are not only to protect the treated area but also to ensure that you can resume your daily activities as soon as possible and without complications. If you have any doubts or issues, don't hesitate to contact me. Your recovery is my priority!