Over time, teeth become worn down and damaged. This is from years of use and, for some, the only way to get a healthy smile is with a tooth extraction. While this might seem backwards, the procedure can be crucial to making a grin more comfortable. That said, if a senior in your life needs this treatment, you might want to help them throughout the process. Here’s an aftercare guide to support them.
How Long Does It Take for Senior Patients to Recover?
On average, tooth extraction recovery takes longer for older adults. This is because the body can’t produce new cells or heal as fast as it could when it was younger. Thankfully, your loved one can avoid complications by following proper aftercare. It can take about a few weeks to make a full recovery.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Right after a tooth extraction, your senior patient might not be in much pain because of local anesthesia and dental sedation. Once these wear off, they might feel soreness and discomfort with bleeding. This is normal, but their dentist will give you instructions on what to follow as they heal and signs of complications to watch for. If you have any questions, then asking them right away can help you be better prepared.
Tips to Aid the Older Adult in Your Life with Their Recovery
Whether you’re looking after your parents, grandparents, or anyone else, these tips can help them have a smoother healing process:
- Have them rinse with warm salt water several times throughout the day. This will clean the extraction site and reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Ensure they take prescribed or recommended pain medication as directed.
- Encourage them to stop smoking or drinking alcohol and hot beverages. That way, they don’t irritate their healing gums.
- Switch them to a soft food diet, as hard and crunchy foods can cause the blood clot that forms in their empty socket to dislodge.
- If you have to leave, then remind your loved one about the dentist’s instructions; that way, they know what to do.
It’s easy to still feel concerned, so don’t hesitate to reach out to your senior parent’s dentist. That way, you get the support you need to take proper care of their healing smile.
About the Practice
Ready for better oral health? Our team at Ponte Vedra Complete Dentistry is dedicated to helping patients avoid dental problems with a wide range of treatments, like tooth extractions. While this may not sound appealing, Dr. Kristopher Harth and Dr. Eric Townsend will try every other solution before resorting to this; that way, you can feel confident your loved one’s grin gets the best care they deserve. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call our office at 904-285-7711.