The Risk of Infection After a Tooth Extraction


Tooth extractions in Mckenzie Towne may be necessary because of an injury, serious infection, or over-crowded teeth. Your dentist will use a strong anesthetic around the area of the extraction to ensure the procedure is pain-free. Once the tooth is extracted, the dentist will place gauze over the area to prevent infection and promote healing.

Tooth extractions are a very common, safe, and effective solution for serious tooth issues. Complications and infections are rare but, like in any dental or medical procedure, possible. They are also preventable and treatable. Your dentist in Mckenzie Towne will give you very specific instructions about how to take care of yourself after your extraction to minimize the risk of infection. Here, we’ll provide general information about extraction-related infections so you’ll be fully equipped to recover fully and quickly.

What causes infections after an extraction?

Infections develop because bacteria has entered into the gap left by your extracted tooth, then entered into your bloodstream. Your best defence against that happening is the blood clot that forms in that gap after the extraction procedure. That clot serves as a barrier to bacteria. It is important to follow your dentist’s instructions carefully to preserve that blood clot.

That blood clot can be dislodged by several common actions that must be during your recovery from an extraction. For the first few days after your extraction, do not rinse, swish, gargle, use straws, spit, blow your nose, sneeze, or smoke. Smoking, especially, can increase the risk of infection because: it increases the risk of the clot being dislodged; and it impairs the body’s ability to fight off infection.

Oral hygiene habits are no less essential after tooth extractions in Mckenzie Towne than they are at any other time. Keeping your teeth and gums clean is a bit more complicated and takes a bit more time following an extraction, but your dentist’s office will give you clear instructions. Follow them carefully. Preserving your blood clot and keeping the affected area clear of debris and bacteria will prevent infection and ensure a speedy and complete recovery.

What are the symptoms of an infection?

Soreness, light bleeding, swelling, and redness in the area of the extraction is normal for the first 48 hours, and not a cause for alarm. There are five symptoms that might indicate the presence of an infection, however. If you have these symptoms, contact your dentist in Mckenzie Towne or an emergency dentist near you for help resolving the infection as soon as possible:

● Your pain gets worse rather than better with time
● Bleeding continues after 24 hours
● You notice an unpleasant smell coming from your mouth
● You see discharge from the area of your extraction
● Swelling in your gums does not start to ease after 24 hours

An infection that arises after an extraction can be treated with antibiotics, so contact your dentist if you have these infection symptoms after 48 hours following your extraction. A dentist near you will assess your condition and may prescribe antibiotics to deal with the infection before it can spread and cause more widespread issues. Your dentist will also review the best oral hygiene practices for ensuring a complete recovery from your extraction and any infection that developed.

Infections following teeth extractions are not common, but are possible. Heeding your dentist’s post-operative instructions carefully can minimize the risk of infection. If you’re concerned about any unusual or unexpected symptoms following a tooth extraction, contact your dentist in Mckenzie Towne. They can answer your questions, assess your condition, and get you back on track to complete health.

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