Tooth Extraction Aftercare: Essential Tips for a Smooth Recovery

Tooth extraction aftercare is crucial for several reasons, including preventing infection, promoting healing, and avoiding complications like dry socket formation. Proper care ensures a smooth recovery and minimizes risks. Below are essential instructions to follow after tooth removal, provided by Dr. Samiksha Jarde, MDS, at Dentalk Specilaity Dental Clinic.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare Instructions

What To Do

1. Control Bleeding: A blood clot must form at the extraction site to begin the healing process. Bite down on a gauze pad placed over the area, changing it every 30-60 minutes until bleeding stops completely. Light oozing is normal throughout the day of surgery. When the surgical site(s) are not visually/actively bleeding, remove the gauze and discontinue its use.

   If after several hours, the bleeding persists, apply further pressure to the socket by biting on a moistened tea bag.

   If you are experiencing heavy bleeding at any time after your surgery, call dental office as soon as possible. If after 48 hours you have any numbness of the lip, teeth or chin (this is usually  temporary) please call our office.

2. Reduce Swelling: Apply ice packs to the outside of your face on the affected side for at least 24 hours after the surgery to minimize swelling and discomfort.

3. Maintain a Soft Diet: Consume soft foods for at least a week—anything that can be easily cut with a fork. Drink plenty of fluids but avoid using straws for the first few days, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot.

4. Take Prescribed Medications: Follow your dentist’s prescription carefully. If you experience any side effects, discontinue use and contact our office immediately.

5. Rinse With Saltwater: Start 24 hours after the extraction by rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater (4-5 times a day) to keep the area clean and reduce soreness.

What Not To Do

1. No Smoking: Avoid smoking for at least 24 hours. Smoking will interfere with early healing, cause persistent bleeding, and can cause infection and other problems.

2. No Rinsing or Spitting: Do not rinse or spit for the first 24 hours to prevent dislodging the blood clot.

3. Avoid Hard or Crunchy Foods: Do not chew on hard or crunchy foods near the extraction site for 6-8 weeks to prevent food debris from getting stuck in the socket.

4. Be Gentle With Oral Hygiene: Do not brush your teeth in the immediate area of the extraction for the first 24 hours. Then, be a little gentle for the first few days to avoid trauma to the area.Of course, it's very important to brush and floss normally everywhere else and keep your mouth as clean as possible.

5. Limit Physical Activity: Avoid strenuous activities like sports, bending, or lifting for 3-5 days to prevent complications.

6. Do Not Poke the Area: Avoid touching the extraction site with your tongue, fingers, or any objects like toothpicks to prevent irritation or dry socket.

If you have any concerns or need further assistance after your extraction, don’t hesitate to contact us at +91 95454 96824. Your dental health is our priority, and we’re here to help you every step of the way!