What Happens in Tooth Extraction?
When you know what happens during a tooth extraction, you will be less anxious about the treatment. A tooth extraction is a procedure where a decayed tooth is removed from the jawbone. There are two types of extractions:
- Simple Extraction: This procedure is performed on visible teeth. A dentist uses an instrument known as an elevator to loosen the tooth from its socket.
- Surgical Extraction: Broken teeth or teeth that are not easily accessible, like wisdom teeth, are removed through an incision in the gum. This procedure is often done under anesthesia.
Both of these procedures are safe, but they leave a wound in your gum, which needs time to heal.
Why You Need to Be Careful About Eating After an Extraction?
What you eat after getting your tooth extracted can impact your healing process. Ignoring precautions can lead to pain and other complications.
Blood Clot
After a tooth is removed, a blood clot starts forming, which acts like a barrier to cover the exposed bone. This is one of the most important elements of the healing process. However, consuming certain foods can interrupt the process.
Dry Socket
When a blood clot becomes dislodged or fails to form, the bone and nerves are exposed. This can lead to delayed healing and extreme pain.
Infection
Food particles have bacteria that can easily cause swelling, pus, and other complicated issues in the bone.
Reopening of the Wound
When a person chews aggressively, they can reopen their wound and irritate the affected areas, which will extend the recovery time.
Have Questions ?
We Are Open On Saturday
When Can You Start Eating Solid Foods?
Your timing of when you can start eating solid foods depends on the complexity of your extraction and how well you are healing.
- First 24 Hours
In the first 24 hours, avoid all solid foods. Stick to soft foods like pudding and yogurt. You can also consume liquids like water and broths. - 48 Hours Post Extraction
During this time, you can start consuming slightly thicker foods, like mashed potatoes, oatmeal, and scrambled eggs. - After 3 Days
If your pain and swelling are visibly gone and your affected area appears to be healing well, you can start eating vegetables, soft breads, rice, fish, and shredded chicken. However, you need to avoid chewing directly on the extraction side. - 7 Days and Beyond
At this time, you can return to your normal diet and start eating solid foods if your healing is progressing. However, if you have multiple teeth removed, it is best to wait more than seven days before you start eating solid foods.
Final Thoughts
Recovering from an extraction does not have to be difficult. As long as you follow the right diet and slowly transition from soft foods to solid foods, you can ensure a speedy recovery.
At Richmond Dental Care, we have senior dental experts who will ensure a smooth extraction process. Schedule an appointment today by calling us at (832) 612-2831.
