After Tooth Extraction

After tooth extraction, a blood clot needs to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. It’s important for you to promote healing and avoid activities that can disturb the extraction site or dislodge the blood clot.

Click here to download our post-op instructions

Follow these instructions closely:

  • Bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes after your appointment.
  • If the bleeding or oozing persists, replace the gauze pad with a new one and continue to bite firmly for 30 minutes. You may have to repeat this several times.
  • Avoid vigorous exercise for 24 hours because it will increase your blood pressure and promote bleeding at the extraction site.
  • Avoid the following activities for 72 hours:
    • Vigorously rinsing your mouth
    • Sucking through a straw
    • Smoking
    • Drinking alcoholic beverages
    • Brushing your teeth near the extraction site
  • Drink plenty of fluid after surgery.
  • When you’re able to eat, choose nutritious soft foods.
  • After 24 hours, resume your dental hygiene routine, including brushing and flossing your teeth at least once a day.

Pain and Discomfort

After tooth extraction, it’s normal to feel have some pain and swelling. Swelling usually subsides after 48 hours. Promote healing with these steps:

  • Apply an ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn to the side of your face. It will keep swelling to a minimum.
  • Take pain medication as directed. Call our office if the medication doesn’t alleviate your pain.
  • If you received a prescription for antibiotics, take it as prescribed, even if you no longer have signs or symptoms of an infection.

After a few days, you should feel fine and be able to resume your normal activities. If you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately.