Tooth extractions are a common dental procedure, often necessary to alleviate pain, remove damaged teeth, or prepare for other dental treatments. While the process itself is straightforward, proper tooth extraction aftercare is crucial to ensuring a smooth and speedy recovery. By our guidelines and taking the right precautions, you can minimize discomfort and avoid complications. 

What to Expect After a Tooth Extraction 

Immediately following your tooth extraction, it’s normal to experience some bleeding, swelling, and mild discomfort. Our team will place gauze over the extraction site to help form a blood clot, which is essential for proper healing. In the hours following your procedure, you may also notice: 

• Minor bleeding that gradually lessens 
• Swelling around the extraction site 
• Mild to moderate pain, which can be managed with medication 
• Sensitivity in the surrounding teeth and gums 

These symptoms should improve within a few days, with full healing typically occurring within one to two weeks. However, improper care can lead to complications like dry socket, infection, or prolonged pain. 

How to Care for Your Mouth After an Extraction 

Following the proper tooth extraction aftercare steps will help you heal faster and reduce the risk of complications. Here’s what you should do: 

1. Control Bleeding 

Use gauze pads to help with bleeding. Bite down gently on the gauze and keep it in place for about 30 to 45 minutes. If bleeding continues, replace the gauze with a fresh piece and apply light pressure. 

2. Reduce Swelling 

Swelling is common after an extraction, but you can minimize it by applying an ice pack to your cheek for 10- to 15-minute intervals during the first 24 hours. Keeping your head elevated when lying down can also help. 

3. Manage Pain 

We may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If prescribed medication, take it as directed. Avoid aspirin, as it can increase bleeding. 

4. Avoid Disturbing the Blood Clot 

A blood clot forms over the extraction site to aid healing. Disrupting it can lead to a painful condition called dry socket. To prevent this: 

• Do not drink from a straw for at least 48 hours 
• Avoid spitting forcefully or rinsing aggressively 
• Refrain from smoking or using tobacco products 

5. Stick to a Soft Diet 

For the first few days, eat soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and applesauce. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that could irritate the area. 

6. Keep Your Mouth Clean 

While you should avoid rinsing vigorously in the first 24 hours, you can gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water after that to keep the area clean. Brush your teeth carefully, avoiding the extraction site. 

Signs of a Complication 

Most extractions heal without issue, but it’s important to watch for signs of complications, including: 

• Severe or worsening pain after a few days 
• Persistent bleeding 
• Swelling that worsens instead of improving 
• A bad taste or odor in your mouth 
• Fever or chills, which may indicate an infection 

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your dentist immediately. 

Schedule a Follow-Up with DICE Dental 

At DICE Dental, we are committed to providing expert care before, during, and after your procedure. If you have concerns about your tooth extraction aftercare, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. A smooth recovery starts with proper aftercare, and we’re here to help every step of the way. 

Schedule an appointment with us today to learn more about our affordable and high-quality dental services.