After Tooth Extraction

There are several reasons your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction, including severe tooth decay, teeth interfering with orthodontic treatment, or wisdom teeth removal. While the procedure itself is important, proper aftercare is critical to reduce pain, prevent infection, and promote healing.

Request an Appointment

Immediate Post-Surgery Care

  • Gauze Pressure: Bite gently on the gauze pad placed by your dentist to control bleeding. Keep the gauze damp if it begins to dry and maintain pressure for 45–60 minutes, repeating as needed.
  • Head Elevation & Activity: Keep your head elevated and minimize physical activity to reduce bleeding and swelling.
  • Rinsing: Begin rinsing with warm salt water 48 hours after surgery every 1–2 hours. Avoid mouthwash containing alcohol as it may irritate the wound.
  • Oral Hygiene: Brush surrounding teeth carefully but avoid touching sutures or the extraction site.
  • Swelling Control: Apply ice packs to your face near the extraction site during the first 36 hours. Afterward, use moist heat if swelling persists.
  • Medications: Take all prescribed medications as directed. Contact the office if unusual swelling or itching occurs.
  • Diet: Stick to soft, high-protein foods and stay hydrated. Avoid drinking through a straw for 5–7 days.
  • Smoking: Refrain from smoking for 3–4 days, as it increases the risk of dry socket and infection.

Recovery Timeline

Healing varies by patient, but sutures usually dissolve or are removed within 3–14 days. The empty socket gradually fills with bone and soft tissue over time. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled for non-resorbable sutures.

Possible Complications

  • Bleeding: Mild bleeding is normal during the first 36 hours. Bite gently on gauze or a moistened tea bag for 30 minutes. Avoid exercise and raising your head suddenly. Call the office if bleeding persists beyond 48 hours.
  • Bone Sequestra: Small fragments of bone may emerge as part of natural healing. Contact the office if you notice sharp fragments poking through the gums.
  • Dry Socket: Throbbing pain radiating to the ear may indicate dry socket, which occurs when the blood clot is dislodged. Contact the office immediately if this occurs.
  • Lightheadedness: Fasting or low blood sugar can cause dizziness. Stand slowly and eat soft sugary foods to alleviate symptoms.
  • Numbness: Numbness can last 10–12 hours post-surgery and is normal.
  • Swelling: Typically resolves within 10 days. Use ice packs initially, then switch to warm damp cloths after 36 hours.
  • Trismus: Temporary jaw stiffness and soreness may occur 3–5 days after surgery. This usually resolves on its own.

If you experience any complications not listed above or have concerns, contact our practice immediately for guidance.