Having a tooth extracted may sound daunting, but sometimes it’s the best solution to relieve pain, treat infection, or make room for orthodontic treatment. While the procedure itself is typically quick and safe, what happens afterward plays a big role in how well and how quickly you recover.
1. Bite Down on the Gauze Pad
Immediately after extraction, your dentist will place a piece of gauze over the surgical site. Biting down gently but firmly helps control bleeding and promotes clot formation, which is essential for healing.
- Keep the gauze in place for at least 30–45 minutes.
- If bleeding continues, replace with fresh gauze and maintain gentle pressure.
2. Rest and Take It Easy
After extraction, your body needs time to heal. Avoid strenuous activities such as heavy lifting, intense workouts, or bending over for at least 24–48 hours. These activities can increase blood pressure and dislodge the clot, slowing the healing process.
3. Apply an Ice Pack
Swelling is normal after tooth extraction, especially in the first 24 hours. Applying an ice pack to the outside of your cheek helps reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Apply for 15–20 minutes at a time, then remove for 20 minutes before reapplying.
- Use a clean cloth or towel between the ice pack and your skin to prevent irritation.
4. Take Prescribed Medications
Dentist may prescribe pain relievers or recommend over-the-counter options. Take them as directed to stay ahead of discomfort. If antibiotics are prescribed, finish the entire course to prevent infection.
5. Stick to Soft Foods
Eating the wrong foods too soon can irritate the extraction site. For the first few days, stick to a soft-food diet, including:
- Yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Smoothies
- Soups (lukewarm, not hot)
- Scrambled eggs
Avoid crunchy, spicy, or sticky foods that could disturb the healing site.
6. Stay Hydrated but Avoid Straws
Drinking water is important for recovery, but using a straw can create suction that may dislodge the clot and lead to dry socket.
- Sip water gently from a cup or bottle.
- Avoid carbonated and alcoholic drinks during the first few days.
7. Maintain Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is essential, but you’ll need to be extra gentle around the extraction site.
- Brush your teeth carefully, avoiding the surgical area for the first 24 hours.
- After the first day, rinse gently with warm salt water (½ teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) to keep the area clean.
- Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting, which can dislodge the clot.
8. Quit Smoking and Alcohol
Both smoking and alcohol can interfere with healing and increase the risk of infection or dry socket. Smoking, in particular, creates suction that can disturb the clot.
9. Keep Your Head Elevated
When resting or sleeping, try to keep your head slightly elevated with pillows. Lying flat may increase bleeding and swelling.
10. Monitor for Warning Signs
Some discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding are normal, but certain symptoms may indicate a complication. Contact your dentist if you notice:
- Severe or worsening pain after 2–3 days
- Excessive bleeding that doesn’t stop with pressure
- Fever, chills, or signs of infection
- Foul taste or odor from the extraction site
- Swelling that worsens instead of improves
Recovering from a tooth extraction doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Still if you are unsure or need guidance on how to take proper care after a tooth extraction or need to undergo one, call us today at 800777000 to book an appointment with our specialist dentists at Go Dental Clinic.
