Are you worried about getting an infection after your tooth extraction? Well, if you are going to have a tooth pulled, the risk of infection is very low if you follow your dentist’s post-extraction care advice.
Tooth extraction is a very common procedure performed either due to severe decay or injury. When a tooth is removed, it leaves a hole that needs to form a clot to prevent infection. This clot thus provides a barrier against germs. If the clot doesn’t form, the area could become more likely to get infected.
Let’s examine tooth extraction infections, including their causes, symptoms, and effective treatment options. We’ll also share some useful tips about prevention and answer common questions about tooth extraction complications.
What are the Signs of Infection After Tooth Extraction?
It is normal that the area will turn red and swell within the first 48 hours after extraction. A slight amount of bleeding is normal, but it usually stops within eight hours following the procedure.
Tooth extraction infection symptoms include the following.
- The pain is getting worse and does not seem to get better at all after extraction.
- Bleeding remains beyond 24 hours.
- There is a bad or foul smell in the mouth.
- There is a discharge in or around the socket area.
- Any swelling of the gums does not begin to fade away after 24 hours.
- You experience fever and the fever persists or worsens.
Tips to Prevent Infection After Tooth Extraction
Most of the time, tooth infections occur a few weeks after a tooth is extracted. The bacteria gain entry to the wound and may reach the blood flow, leading to many complications. When you come to Enhance Dental Centre’s office, we will always examine your wound for signs of infection. If present, we prescribe antibiotics.
Ensure you take all the antibiotics as prescribed, even if you feel relieved. Skipping doses allows the infection to return and reduces the antibiotics’ effectiveness. Here are some tips on how to prevent infection after oral surgery:
Apply a Gauze
If you notice some blood coming out from the wound, this should not make you worried. Bleeding after surgery is normal and can easily be controlled by a gauze.
Soak the gauze in the blood from the wound and wait about 30 minutes before removing it. Repeat this step as many times as possible until the wound stops bleeding.
Take all the Prescribed Medication
Your dentist will give you a prescription during recovery, usually consisting of painkillers and antibiotics. Do not overdose or underdose, no matter how you feel after that.
If you develop any side effects, like itching or swelling, after taking medicine prescribed by your dentist, you need to seek immediate diagnosis and treatment from an emergency dentist near you as you may be experiencing an allergic reaction.
Take Enough Rest
People often underestimate the benefits of resting. Resting makes your body recover much faster. So rest as often so long as you have the free time to do so. You should also avoid engaging in strenuous physical activities a few days after tooth removal.
Be Aware of Your Diet
Recovery depends heavily on the type of food you eat. After removal, eat soft food rich in proteins and drink lots of water to keep the body hydrated. Avoid using straws within the first seven days following surgery. Avoid crunchy snacks, nuts, and fruits with small seeds, as these types of food may get stuck at the extraction site causing discomfort and possible infection if left unattended
Avoid Smoking and Using Tobacco
Avoid smoking and tobacco taking for at least the first four days after tooth extraction. Consuming tobacco and smoking after the treatment definitely slows down healing. It also increases the chances of infection in the tooth.
How to Treat Tooth Extraction Infection?
Extraction-related infections are dental emergencies. Treatment for tooth extraction infections usually takes three days to two weeks, but in severe cases, it can take months. Infections should be short-lived, especially if one is receiving the right treatments.
Antibiotics and Antimicrobial Rinses
The common kind of treatment for infection after tooth extraction includes antibiotics and antimicrobial rinses. Antibiotics kill the bacteria and their multiplication. Antibacterial rinses also kill germs and assist in protecting your teeth from acid.
You must use antibiotics for 7 days or the duration your dentist recommends. Penicillin is a good antibiotic that doctors often prescribe to patients with acute tooth infections, such as dental abscesses. To be prescribed antibiotics, you must visit a dentist or your doctor. They would examine you and prescribe the necessary medication.
Pain Management Methods
Antibiotics alone may not be adequate for controlling extraction pain. The following are some methods you may use to help reduce discomfort and swelling:
- Take your painkillers as directed.
- Use over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like Ibuprofen, Advil, or Motrin.
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water at least three times daily.
- Rest as much as possible.
- Apply pain relievers or analgesic dressings.
Professional Intervention and Follow-Up Care
Professional dental care is the best way to treat any infection that may start right after tooth extraction. Only a dentist can diagnose the severity of an infection and treat it. They will then follow up on a treatment plan for you, prescribe the right medications, and help manage your pain.
Conclusion
A tooth extraction infection can be disruptive, but it can be managed with the right care and quick treatment. Knowing the symptoms, causes, and prevention tips can help lower your risk. If you think you have an infection, contact your dentist right away.
Acting early can stop the infection from worsening and help you recover faster. At Enhance Dental Centre, we care about your oral health. If you have questions about tooth extraction or aftercare, feel free to schedule a consultation with our team.
FAQs
1- Can a tooth extraction infection heal on its own?
No, a tooth extraction infection usually requires professional treatment with antibiotics. While some mild infections might improve with good oral hygiene and saltwater rinses, it’s crucial to consult a dentist to prevent complications.
2- How long does a tooth extraction infection last?
The duration of a tooth extraction infection varies depending on its severity and the treatment provided. If left untreated, it can last for several days or weeks. However, with proper antibiotic treatment, symptoms usually improve within a few days.
3- What are the early signs of an infection after a tooth extraction?
Early signs of a tooth extraction infection include:
- Increasing pain or discomfort
- Persistent swelling
- Bad breath or unpleasant taste
- Fever
- Pus or discharge from the extraction site
4- How long after a tooth extraction can an infection occur?
An infection can occur anytime after a tooth extraction, but it’s most common within the first few days. However, an infection can develop later, especially if there are complications or underlying health issues.
5- Is a dry socket the same as an infection?
No, dry socket and infection are different conditions, although they can sometimes occur together. A dry socket is when the blood clot at the extraction site becomes dislodged, exposing the bone. While it can be painful, it’s not an infection. An infection occurs when bacteria invade the extraction site.
The post Tooth Extraction Infection: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention first appeared on Enhance Dental CA.