How to Prepare for a Tooth Extraction

A tooth can be pulled for a number of reasons, including severe tooth decay, infection, or injury. While the thought of having a tooth pulled may seem scary, it’s really not as bad as it sounds. Your natural smile will be completely restored afterward! The dentists at Darren Gonzalez DDS want to help you restore your beautiful smile as quickly as possible. 

Preparing for Your Extraction Procedure

During your visit, your doctor will administer a local anesthetic to numb your mouth and jaw for your comfort. After treatment, you will receive detailed aftercare instructions from our team. These steps can help to reduce swelling and pain as well as promote a healthy blood clot and help the healing process. To aid you in your recovery process, we have listed some helpful tips below. If you have any questions regarding the healing process, please do not hesitate to contact us.

• Stick to soft foods after treatment to avoid irritation to the gums.
• Avoid smoking as it inhibits healing.
• Limit movement of your jaw after surgery. Avoid opening the mouth all the way for the first couple of days. You can begin to do this once you feel comfortable.
• Keep a steady flow of salt water rinses throughout the recovery period. Mix one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water, and gently swish the solution in your mouth for thirty seconds, then spit out the water. Repeat this process at least four times a day to promote healing and to help remove blood clots and debris from the surgical site.
• Take any prescribed antibiotics or pain medication as instructed by our office. If you are concerned about potential side effects, please discuss your concerns with our staff.
• Rinse and repeat the same saltwater mouthwash until you are cleared to do so at home.
• Maintain proper dental hygiene as you heal. Continue to brush and floss every day, paying special attention to the surgical area.
• Visit one of our offices after a week to have your stitches removed.
• Visit us again during your regular cleaning appointments so we can monitor the healing of your gums.

Relax! The healing process takes time, but following these tips will help to ensure that you have a good post-operative experience.

Get in touch with Darren Gonzalez, DDS, at 1515 Montgomery Drive Ste B, Santa Rosa, CA 95405, or call (707) 542-1532 for the best dental care tailored to your unique needs.