As you age, your body does too. When it comes to teeth, they can become worn-down and damaged, eventually requiring extraction to help maintain a healthy baseline for your smile. If you’re looking after your parents following their tooth extraction, it’s important to be mindful of the fact that recovering from this procedure as a senior can be different than someone in their 30s. Read on to learn more about what tooth extraction aftercare looks like for senior patients.
Is It Safe for Seniors to Have a Tooth Extracted?
In most cases, it’s safe for seniors to get a tooth extraction; however, there are several different factors that their dentist will take into account before completing the procedure. They will ask about your parent’s medical history, medications they’re taking, and if necessary, consult with their primary care doctor to ensure their safety. After all of these factors have been assessed, then they will plan the treatment.
Does the Recovery Process Take Longer for Senior Patients?
In general, the tooth extraction recovery process does take longer for older patients. This is due to the fact that their body will not produce new cells or heal as fast as it did when they were younger. However, with proper aftercare and help, they will be able to make a full recovery, usually within a few weeks.
What to Expect After the Procedure
After your parent’s tooth extraction, they will experience some discomfort, bleeding, and tenderness in the area of the mouth where their procedure was performed. Their dentist will provide you with instructions to help them make a speedy recovery, as well as some signs of concern to look out for. Don’t hesitate to ask their dentist any questions or concerns you may have after their extraction or during their recovery.
How Can You Help Your Senior Parent Recover from Their Extraction?
If you’re looking after your senior parent, you’ll want to follow these helpful recovery tips to ensure a smooth healing process:
- Get them to rinse with salt water several times during the day to keep the extraction site clean and reduce discomfort and swelling.
- Have them take any prescribed or recommended pain medication as directed by their dentist.
- Encourage them to stop smoking, drinking hot beverages and alcohol, and maintain a soft diet until their mouth has healed.
- Stock their kitchen with soft foods only, as crunchy or hard foods can cause the blood clot to dislodge, leading to dry socket.
- Remind your parent to follow their dentist’s instructions while you’re not there to look after them.
If at any point you have concerns or questions about your parent’s health or the symptoms they’re experiencing, always reach out to their dentist for help. With your support and assistance, they will be at a much lower risk of post-operative concerns!
About the Author
Dr. Dalton Hunt brings over a decade of dental experience to her patients. She has completed advanced post-graduate education in a variety of focus areas and offers same-day and after-hours emergency care for patients in pain. If your parent lives in Raleigh and is experiencing a dental emergency, visit Dalton Hunt Dentistry’s website or call 919-787-8243.