You should avoid hard foods, spicy foods, acidic foods, food that entails a lot of chewing, or anything that requires a straw. Hard foods, like apples, nuts, or popcorn, can put pressure on the extraction site, causing irritation and pain. Food with sharp pieces may cause damage to the area.
You should eat soft foods and liquids (without a straw) for the first few days after an extraction. Pasta, eggs, yogurt, and rice are some examples of good post-extraction foods that you can eat. You should also keep the extraction site clean by gently rinsing it with mouthwash several times a day. Don’t brush the area directly until your dentist tells you it’s okay. You can follow your normal oral hygiene routine for your other teeth and areas of your mouth.
Some other things to avoid include strenuous activity and lifting anything over 10 pounds (which may cause bleeding and pain). Ask your dentist when you can return to normal activities. Although it feels instinctual, don’t poke at the area with your tongue. You should also stay away from smoking or vaping, as it reduces blood flow and slows healing.
Do You Need a Tooth Extraction in Knoxville, TN?
If you need a tooth removed, the team at Dental Co. of Knoxville is ready to help. You can give us a call at (865) 722-0239 to make an appointment or if you have questions.