How to Keep Gums Healthy After Tooth Extraction

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Though it’s probably not something you look forward to, having a tooth extraction in Brookeland, TX is sometimes important for your oral health. Yet once your tooth is extracted, it is just as important that you follow the advice of your dentist regarding how to keep your gums healthy and allow your mouth to heal. To avoid post-extraction problems, here are some steps you can take.

Keep the Extraction Site Clean

To prevent infection, do as your dentist says and keep the extraction site clean. To do so, you can gently rinse your mouth with a glass of water than has one teaspoon of salt added to it. Though you will probably have to wait about 12 hours after the extraction before you can rinse, doing this about three times daily for a few days will yield positive results.

Don’t Drink Hot Liquids

If you like coffee, hot chocolate, or any other hot drinks, you’ll need to steer clear of these for a few days following your extraction. If you don’t, chances are the hot liquids will increase the swelling around your extraction, prompting another visit to the dentist.

Brush Your Teeth Gently

While you can gently brush your teeth following an extraction, there are a few things you will need to keep in mind. First, don’t brush close to the extraction site. If you try brushing too close, you may dislodge the blood clot that formed, leading to excessive bleeding. Also, don’t use any toothpaste when you are brushing. Since you would have to rinse and then spit out the toothpaste, this too may dislodge the blood clot.

Eat Soft, Healthy Foods

Finally, since you’re not expected to starve yourself after a tooth extraction, remember to eat only foods that are soft and healthy. Popular options include applesauce, spaghetti, and yogurt. If you need some comfort food to help you feel a little better, maybe a bit of ice cream can also be eaten.

After your tooth extraction, always take the advice of your dentist in Brookeland, TX. By doing exactly as your dentist instructs you to do and using your common sense and good judgement along the way, it should not be long until your gums are healed up and your mouth is feeling great.

Solutions for Wonky Wisdom Teeth

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Usually, between the ages of 17 and 21, we begin to notice that third set of molars known as wisdom teeth. We call them wisdom teeth because they put in their first appearance when we’re almost grown. Sometimes, these teeth break through the gums cleanly and in the proper position, causing no problems. Often, however, they end up misaligned. This is when your dentist in Brookeland, TX, may recommend oral surgery to remove them.

Common Problems Caused by Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth can cause of host of problems when they’re positioned wrong. They can crowd the teeth you already have, causing them to become cracked or damaged. They can grow in at strange angles that trap food and bacteria and contribute to dental caries. They may also try to grow in behind healthy teeth that have already erupted. All of these situations may be painful and may cause damage to your surrounding teeth. They may make it difficult to chew properly and cause painful, inflamed gums and infection.

How Do I Know If My Wisdom Teeth Are Problematic?

The best way to keep tabs on wisdom teeth is to schedule regular dental checkups with your dentist. If you’re a mature teen or young adult, your dentist will X-ray your teeth to check on the progression of wisdom teeth. Through proper diagnostics, they can recommend the treatment that’s right for you.

If it’s been a while between dental visits, and you’re experiencing pain in the gum area near the back of your mouth, this could a sign of wisdom tooth distress. Make an appointment to discuss wisdom teeth removal in Brookeland, TX.

Treatment for Wonky Wisdom Teeth

The most common treatment for problematic wisdom teeth is removal. Your dentist will probably refer you to an oral surgeon who can remove the teeth before they begin to erupt and cause painful issues. Wisdom teeth removal is a very common procedure that’s performed many times a day in America. Healing time is minimal, and the benefits are well worth the surgery.

In Brookeland, TX, Rayburn General Dentistry can help diagnose and treat problems with wisdom teeth. Call today to schedule a consultation and diagnostic testing. Early detection is key to preventing the pain of an impacted wisdom tooth. Contact us today to learn more.