Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Looking after the extraction area following tooth removal in Greenwich.

At the Confidental Clinic, one of our main roles is to help our Greenwich patients keep their natural teeth for as long as possible.

There are many restorative procedures that can help us to do this, including fillings and crowns, but in some situations though, this may not be possible and the tooth may need to be extracted.

Once your tooth has been removed, it is important that you take good care of the area where the tooth has been extracted. Immediately following the procedure, we will stem any blood flow from the wound using a piece of sterile gauze. Once we are happy that a blood clot has formed, and the healing process is under way, the care of this area falls largely to the patient. We are, of course, always available should you have any concerns in the days following your treatment.

Below, we offer some simple tips to help you keep the wound clean and healthy, and speed up the healing time.

Leave the clot alone

Once a blood clot has formed, this will heal and protect the area of the extraction. It is important that this stays in place and you should not poke it with your finger, tongue or any implement, including a toothbrush. If the clot does become dislodged, please discuss this with your local Greenwich dentist. This can lead to a problem known as a ‘dry socket’ which can be very uncomfortable.

Keep it clean

Although we have said not to use a toothbrush on the blood clot, it is still important that you keep it clean. This can be done using a warm saline solution which is ‘tipped’ over the wound and allowed to fall from the mouth. You should not ‘swish’ it around your mouth or spit, as both of these actions may dislodge the clot.

Smoking and drinking

Because both smoking and drinking are significant contributors to gum disease and increases the risk of other infections too, you should not do either of these whilst the wound is healing. Indeed, even once it has healed, it is far better to avoid smoking especially. Gum disease, infections and oral cancer risks are all greatly increased if you do.

Eating

It probably goes without saying that you should avoid using that part of your mouth to eat with until it has healed sufficiently. You may find it easier to eat softer foods or even soup, at least for the first 24 hours or so. Keep your food at a moderate temperature too as this will be more comfortable.

We will provide an information sheet to patients who have teeth extracted at the Confidental Clinic in Greenwich, but hopefully, you will also find this advice useful. For appointments or aftercare advice, we can be contacted by calling us on 020 8858 1422.