Severe crowding, an impacted wisdom tooth, and severe decay are just a few reasons your dentist may have recommended an extraction. And with a few extra days off around the holidays coming up, you may be thinking of scheduling your treatment sooner rather than later. While it’s a smart move for your calendar (and your oral health!), there are a few things you should know about getting a tooth extracted during the holiday season. Read on as a dentist in Phoenix shares what they are!
#1. Get Plenty of Rest
In the hours and days following your oral surgery, it’s natural to feel “foggy,” especially if IV sedation was involved. So, while it may be tempting to jump back into the hustle and bustle this time of year brings, getting plenty of rest is paramount. With this in mind, make sure to drink lots of water, relax as much as possible, and don’t engage in any strenuous activities.
#2. It’s Best Not to Fly for a Few Days
Depending on the exact procedure and how many teeth you are getting extracted, your dental team may recommend not flying for a few days. If you do have to catch a plane out of town for your seasonal celebrations, then do your best to schedule your appointment accordingly. To help with the swelling and bruising, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 10 minutes on and 10 minutes off. That way, you can alleviate any puffiness or discomfort you’re experiencing.
#3. Soft Foods Are a Must
The holiday season is filled with candied pecans, delectable peanut brittle, and roasted chestnuts. However, sticking with soft, bland foods is ideal following your procedure, especially since you may have difficulty chewing. The good news is that there are plenty of festive staples you can enjoy, like:
- Mashed potatoes
- Baked yams
- Stuffing
- Apple sauce
- Soup
- Eggs
Having a tooth extracted can do wonders for your smile and overall oral health. If you are taking advantage of the opening in your calendar around the holidays to schedule your appointment, just make sure to keep the above information in mind!
About the Practice
Smile Fitness Dental Centers is locally owned and operated, and they have been helping patients in Phoenix and the surrounding communities for over three full decades. Whether you are having a severely decayed tooth removed or one of your wisdom teeth is impacted, you can have peace of mind knowing their highly-trained team will use the latest technology and their clinical expertise to restore your pain-free smile. So, if you are considering having a tooth extracted over the holidays, visit their website or give them a call at 623-849-0477.