One of the most relieving yet slightly painful experiences is undergoing tooth extraction surgery. It’s relieving in the sense that it gets rid of the aching tooth in one go. And painful because, after the surgery, you’re bound to feel sore for some time. However, it’s important to note that if you don’t pay proper care and attention to the surgery site, it could lead to severe altercations. One of which is an infection after tooth extraction.
The feeling of added pain right when you heal from the previous incisions is not exactly pleasant. It can offset your entire routine and cause some serious problems down the line. Thus, to prevent this from happening, it’s essential to know what induces the infection and how you can identify the signs beforehand.
What Causes Infection After Tooth Extraction?
There isn’t anything out of the ordinary that causes infection to take place. But, of course, the prime reason comes down to poor oral hygiene. If you do not manage to take proper care of your dental routine, you could end up putting yourself at risk. Try using a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth, that too with gentleness. Do not rub with all your might, but rather in slow, circular motions.
Moreover, don’t forget to incorporate flossing into your daily routine, as your gums need to be flushed clean as well. Plus, once you’re done eating, make sure you rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free mouthwash to boost your oral health and prevent dryness.
How Long After an Extraction Does Infection Occur?
In most cases, signs of infection start displaying within a few days of the surgery. That is to say, in a day or two, you might start to notice the initial signs of an infection settling in. It’s only on rare occasions that it could take up to 3 to 4 weeks after the surgery for an infection site to get contaminated. Either way, pay close attention to your oral health and visit your dentist immediately if you notice something amiss.
Signs You Might Be Suffering From a Tooth Extraction Infection
Usually, before a fully-fledged infection pops out, there are certain symptoms you can take note of. Some of these signs that you should keep an eye out for are:
- Pus-filled Sac
- Recurring Fever
- Bleeding Gums
- Odd Taste in Mouth
- Foul Smelling Breath
- Increased Swelling
- Tenderness in Gums that won’t go away
- Extreme Discomfort around the Extraction Site
- Increased Bouts of Pain
Post-Surgery Care & Prevention Tips
Soon after your tooth extraction surgery, there are a few crucial things you need to take care of, especially the tips your dentist tells you. Nevertheless, to prevent an abscess or infection from arising, you can follow the prevention tips mentioned below:
- Brush & Floss Your Teeth At least Two Times a Day
- Gargle with Saltwater Solution
- Apply a Cold Compress
- Do Not Eat Crunchy, Crispy, or Hard Foods
- Follow The Doctor’s Instructions
- Finish the Antibiotics Course Prescribed by the Dentist
Bottom Line
To sum it up, an infection after tooth extraction surgery isn’t exactly uncommon. But it sure is something that can cause a lot of pain. Nonetheless, if you notice the signs mentioned above start to pop up, it’s necessary to get them checked out by a dental professional. In case of any emergency or problem, contact Brenham Family Dental and Orthodontics at (979) 421-9685 to schedule an appointment.