Tooth Extraction: Aftercare and Recovery

A tooth extraction may be necessary for several reasons, including severe decay, orthodontic treatment, or wisdom teeth removal. While the procedure itself is important, proper post-operative care is equally critical to minimize pain, prevent infection, and support optimal healing.

Immediate Post-Operative Care

  • Gauze and Bleeding Control: Keep gentle pressure on the gauze pad placed over the surgical site by biting down. If it dries out, dampen it with water. Maintain pressure for 45–60 minutes at a time, replacing the gauze as needed until bleeding decreases.
  • Head Position & Activity: Keep your head elevated and reduce physical activity for the first 24–48 hours.
  • Oral Rinsing: Begin rinsing with warm saltwater 48 hours after surgery, every 1–2 hours. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes, which can irritate the wound.
  • Oral Hygiene: Brush surrounding teeth carefully, avoiding the surgical site and sutures. Do not touch the wound.
  • Swelling Control: Apply ice packs to the cheek near the extraction site in 15-minute intervals during the first 36 hours. After this period, switch to moist heat to help reduce swelling.
  • Medications: Take all prescribed medications as directed. Contact the office if you experience unexpected swelling or itching.
  • Diet: Stick to soft foods, preferably high in protein, and drink plenty of fluids. Avoid using straws for 5–7 days.
  • Smoking: Refrain from smoking for at least 3–4 days, as it increases the risk of infection and dry socket.

Healing Timeline

  • Sutures should dissolve or be removed within 3–14 days, depending on whether they are resorbable.
  • The tooth socket will gradually fill with bone and smooth over with surrounding tissue.

Possible Complications

Bleeding: Some oozing or pink-tinged saliva is normal for the first 36 hours. If bleeding is heavy, use dampened gauze or a moistened tea bag to apply pressure for 30 minutes. Avoid strenuous activity, bending, or sitting upright, as these can increase bleeding. Call the office if bleeding persists after 48 hours.

Bone Sequestra: Small fragments of bone may surface during healing. This is normal, but can cause discomfort. Contact the office if you notice sharp fragments poking through the gums.

Dry Socket: Normally, pain decreases after extraction, but a throbbing pain radiating toward the ear may indicate dry socket, which occurs when the blood clot is disturbed. Tobacco users and women on oral contraceptives are at higher risk. Dry socket requires prompt dental attention.

Lightheadedness: Fasting before surgery can lower blood sugar. Stand up slowly, eat soft sugary foods, and stay relaxed until energy levels normalize.

Numbness: Residual numbness is common and may last 10–12 hours after surgery.

Swelling: Swelling typically resolves within 10 days. Use ice for the first 36 hours, then switch to warm, moist heat.

Trismus (Jaw Soreness): Difficulty opening or closing the mouth may occur for 3–5 days due to jaw muscle soreness. This should gradually improve.

If you experience any complications or concerns not listed here, contact our office immediately so that we can provide guidance and support. Proper care ensures faster healing and reduces the risk of long-term issues after your tooth extraction.