After Tooth Extractions

Home Care Instructions After a Tooth Extraction

• Control Bleeding
  Bite down on the gauze pad placed on the extraction site for 30-45 minutes. If bleeding persists, replace the gauze and continue applying pressure. If bleeding is excessive or continues beyond a few hours, contact our office.
• Avoid Rinsing or Spitting
  Do not rinse your mouth, spit, or use a straw for the first 24 hours. This can dislodge the blood clot that forms in the socket, which is crucial for proper healing.
• Pain Management
  You may experience some discomfort after the procedure. Take any prescribed medications as directed or use over-the-counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen or Tylenol. Avoid aspirin, as it can thin the blood and prolong bleeding.
• Swelling
  Swelling is common and can be reduced by applying an ice pack to the outside of the affected area for 10-20 minutes at a time, with breaks in between.
• Diet
  Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soups for the first 24-48 hours. Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or hard foods, and chew away from the extraction site.
• Oral Hygiene
  Avoid brushing around the extraction site for the first 24 hours. After that, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) several times a day to keep the area clean.
• Avoid Smoking
  Do not smoke for at least 48 hours after the extraction, as this can delay healing and increase the risk of a painful condition called dry socket.
• Physical Activity
  Limit strenuous physical activities for at least 24 hours to avoid increased bleeding or discomfort.
• Follow-Up
  If you experience severe pain, prolonged bleeding, swelling that worsens after 2-3 days, or any signs of infection, contact us at Pearly Smiles Dental, 630-454-7655.