This guide will prove helpful if you are about to undergo a tooth extraction or have just undergone this treatment. Here, we will highlight the common signs of infection after tooth extraction. Understanding these signs lets you stay informed and get timely medical attention if necessary.
Worried about infection after your extraction? Schedule your check-up today!
Tooth Extraction Infection Symptoms
Untreated infection after a tooth extraction can prove to be highly problematic. It is important to watch out for the below-mentioned symptoms to avoid escalating the problem.
1. Persistent Pain
It is normal to experience some pain after tooth extraction. Very rarely, you might even have to bear with a headache after tooth extraction. At The Braces Point, we offer painless tooth extraction services in Andheri West, but if pain continues after extraction then take the prescribed medication. However, if the pain does not subside within a few days or becomes even more intense, it can indicate an infection. Tooth pain can also be one of the signs you need a root canal.
2. Swelling And Redness
Swelling is common after tooth extraction. It is part of the healing process. But if the swelling does not go away or worsens over time, it could be a sign of infection post-tooth extraction. Also, if you notice redness around the extraction site or the gums, it could be a reason to worry.
Severe swelling can cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing. In some cases, there might be a need for immediate medical attention and requires treatment.
3. Discharge Or Pus
Discharge or pus from the extraction site is one of the clearest signs of infection after a tooth extraction. You might witness a yellow or white discharge with an unpleasant odour. Pus often indicates that your body is fighting off a bacterial infection.
If you notice any discharge or pus from the extraction site, visit your dentist immediately. The dentist will clean the area, treat the infected, bleeding gums after tooth extraction, and suggest antibiotics to help treat the infection. Infections are one of the leading causes of bleeding gums.
Here are some tips for healthy gums and teeth.
4. Fever And Chills
If you develop a fever or experience chills after a tooth extraction, it might be a sign that the infection might be spreading in your body.
A fever usually develops when your body tries to ward off the bacterial infection. However, if the fever persists after tooth extraction, you should not ignore it. It would be best to visit a dental clinic in Andheri West or an urgent care facility.
5. Unpleasant Taste Or Odour
You might also experience an unpleasant taste or odour in your mouth after the extraction process. The unpleasant odour after the tooth extraction often results from the discharge of pus or bacterial growth at the extraction site. Usually, unpleasant taste or odour goes away with proper brushing and flossing techniques.
However, brushing does not help alleviate bad taste or smell; it indicates an infection that needs professional attention. Of course, maintaining oral hygiene is crucial. However, sometimes, professional cleaning becomes necessary to address the tooth infection after extraction.
Tips To Recover From Tooth Infection After Extraction
Recovering from a tooth infection requires careful attention. You must maintain good oral hygiene and follow your dentist’s recommendations to heal quickly after the tooth extraction.
Let us look at tips to help you recover from tooth infection after extraction.
- First, you should follow your dentist’s recommendation on how to care for the extraction site. The dentist might advise you to avoid certain foods and use prescribed medications.
- If the dentist suggests you take antibiotics, you should take them exactly as he directs. It will help ensure that the infections are eliminated. You can also consume pain relievers to manage the discomfort.
- Brush your teeth gently and avoid the extraction site to prevent irritation. You must use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be careful not to disturb stitches or clotting.
- If you are experiencing swelling and pain around the extraction area, opt for a warm saltwater rinse. It can help reduce the bacteria and soothe your gums. Just mix ½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth gently a couple of times throughout the day.
- Smoking and alcohol can hinder the healing process and might also lead to an increase in the risk of infection. So, you should avoid smoking and drinking for at least 48 hours after the tooth extraction.
- Eat soft and nutritious foods if you are experiencing any signs of infection after tooth extraction. You can opt for foods such as yoghurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies to prevent irritation to the extraction site. Avoid eating hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could cause discomfort.
- You should also drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and allow your body to heal.
- Apply ice packs to your cheek at the extraction site. You should do this at 15-minute intervals to reduce swelling and numb the area.
- Finally, keep an eye out for infection. Watch out for any signs of worsening infections at the extraction site. If the symptoms don’t go away or worsen over time, visit the dentist immediately.
Worried about infection after your extraction? Schedule your check-up today!
Conclusion
Infections after tooth extraction can be highly concerning for your oral health and well-being. Most people have no idea about the connection between oral health and overall health. However, if you recognise the signs early, you can make a significant difference in your recovery. The symptoms of infection after tooth extraction that we have discussed above are all red flags.
If you experience any symptoms, don’t hesitate to visit the dentist immediately. Our dentist at The Braces Point Total Dental Care Clinic offers proper care and attention to facilitate a smooth recovery. For more information on tooth extraction infection or to book an appointment, contact us.
FAQ’s
Common signs of infection following tooth extraction include persistent pain, swelling around the tooth extraction area, redness, and increased warmth. Other symptoms could include pus leakage, fever, and bad breath.
The healing of the bone and soft tissues may take months, but the extraction site should heal within 1-2 weeks. If you have any symptoms lasting longer than 1-2 weeks, you should visit your dentist to check your extraction site for any infections.
If you feel the infection has probably occurred, for instance, in case of severe pain or swelling, and especially when you start feeling there is pus discharge, you should visit your dentist. They can look at the area, administer medication to control the infection and prescribe antibiotics.
To avoid infection, follow the post-extraction instructions from your dentist: clean the area where the tooth was extracted, do not smoke, and take the prescribed medications. Ensure you maintain proper oral hygiene while not disturbing the clot forming in the socket.
Although home remedies like saltwater rinse may keep the extraction site clean, it's certainly not a replacement for professional dental care. Moreover, if the patient has an infection, one should seek treatment at his dentist and not just rely on home remedies.
Dr. Nikhil Vashi
Dr. Nikhil Vashi, an esteemed Orthodontist with over three decades of experience, earned his MDS in Orthodontics from Nair Hospital Dental College, Bombay University, in 1985. He achieved the title of Diplomate of the Indian Board of Orthodontics (D.I.B.O.) in 2000 and specialises in enhancing smiles through comprehensive dental care in Mumbai.
