Extraction Aftercare
After a tooth extraction you may have some discomfort and swelling for a few days and your jaw may feel a little stiff. If you need pain relief, you can take over-the-counter painkillers such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen. It's normal to have minor bleeding for the first couple of days after having a tooth removed. Rinse your mouth with clean water and then bite down on a clean pad of material such as a piece of cotton, tissue, or handkerchief. If the bleeding doesn't stop within 15 to 30 minutes, contact your dentist for advice. It is necessary to contact your dentist immediately if you experience prolonged bleeding, swelling, severe pain, and a high temperature (fever) as these may be signs of an infection or other complications.
One of the most common problems that can occur after tooth extraction is called a dry socket. This is when there is no blood clot so the tooth socket doesn't heal as quickly as expected. This usually happens within two to four days after the extraction and is painful. Go back to your dentist, who will rinse the area, put a dressing on it, and may give you antibiotics.
Root Canal Aftercare
After a root canal treatment, make sure to keep your teeth clean by brushing at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Also remember to floss or use interdental brushes to clean in between the teeth daily. We recommend to be cautious of eating habits and avoid chewing on hard foods until the treatment has been completed. This will prevent the tooth from breaking or cracking as the tooth will be in a more fragile state until it has been fully restored with a permanent crown or filling. It will also ensure that the temporary filling or crown doesn't come out and expose the newly-cleaned interior of the tooth to contaminants from the mouth.