Extractions

Caring for Your Mouth After Tooth Extraction

After tooth extraction, it is important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. Bite on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes after the appointment. If bleeding or oozing continues, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may need to do this several times. After the blood clot forms, it is important not to disturb or dislodge it, as it aids healing.

• Bite on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes after your appointment.
• If bleeding or oozing continues, replace the gauze and bite firmly for another 30 minutes.
• Repeat as needed until bleeding slows.

• For 72 hours, avoid vigorous rinsing, using straws, smoking, drinking alcohol, or brushing teeth next to the extraction site.
• Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours, as this may increase bleeding.
• Use an ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn to help minimize swelling.
• Take pain medication as prescribed. Swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.
• Use pain medication as directed and call the office if it does not seem to be working.
• If antibiotics are prescribed, take them for the full length of time, even if symptoms of infection are gone.
• Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious soft foods on the day of the extraction. Eat normally as soon as you are comfortable.
• Resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours, including brushing and flossing at least once a day, to help speed healing and keep your mouth clean.
• After a few days, you should feel fine and can return to normal activities.
• Call our office immediately if you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, swelling that continues for 2 to 3 days, or a reaction to medication.