9/15/14

Caring for Extractions

Doesn't seem to have an affect his smile!


Two months ago, Mohamed Farah, champion runner, missed out on his opportunity to participate in the Commonwealth Games due to an infected tooth.  His infected tooth, alongside a stomach ailment, left Farah hospitalized 4 days before the competition could begin. During athletic training prior to the event, he had collapsed with suspected heart problems and was air lifted to the hospital.

Last month was the 2014 European Athletics Championship in Switzerland.  Farah, fully recovered, not only was he able to successfully finish,  but he won.  His events were the 10,000- and the 5,000-metre races.  So what happened?

We can't say for his stomach ailments, but in all likelihood, Farah's extraction was not likely treated properly afterword, which lead to his infection.  When an extraction is performed, it is treated as most open wound injuries are cared for.  Attention is placed on keeping it clean and bacteria free.  It can be a light, swift recovery, or a longer, more painful recovery if bacteria infected the wound.  Please heed the following advice when having your tooth extracted to prevent ailments, bacteria, or unneeded pain from occurring:

  • When the extraction is finished, you may experience additional bleeding.  This is a common side effect.  Remember to keep up with your gauze pads and change them as needed to prevent harmful bacteria from reaching the exposed area.
  • If you are a smoker, refrain from smoking as it burdens the mouth's natural ability to fight off infections for itself.
  • It is common for swelling to occur.  Apply cold packs or ice to the face and mouth regularly as pain or swelling persists.
  • After 24 hours, you may begin swishing warm water with salt in your mouth to gently remove mild bacteria from the mouth and better clean your extracted area.  Mix five grams of salt or one teaspoon with 240 milliliters or eight fluid ounces of water to make the solution.  Do this up to several times a day.
  • Try to relax and let your injury cure itself.  Physical activities may cause bleeding to occur.  Additionally, while laying down, try propping your head up instead of lying flat.  The helps reduce bleeds.  
  • Accommodate your food choices with your pain level.  Start off with extremely soft foods, like soups, smoothies, gelatin, puddings, and yogurts.  After a few days, slowly add more solid foods to your diet as you see comfortable.  
  • Take all your medications (if any) as indicated or instructed by your doctor.  To not stop them prematurely or change daily dosage without their expressed consent.  
With this guidance, you should be able to have a successful heal on your exaction.  With the right measures taken, your extraction will be feeling better within just a few days of the procedure.  Slight discomfort is normal.  Please favor If you feel you did everything right, and are still experiencing throbbing pain after about two weeks, call your dentist.

Wishing you a swift recovery,


Dr. Morales