Post-Extraction Care: Do's and Don'ts

Having a tooth removed may feel like the hardest part—but proper care after [link to Extraction Blog post 1 here ] a tooth extraction procedure is just as important. Following the right steps after a tooth extraction ensures faster healing as well as help reduce the risk of complications like infection or dry socket.

At Tend, we want every patient to feel confident about the healing process. Whether you’ve had a wisdom tooth removed or a damaged tooth extracted, here’s your go-to guide on what to do—and what to avoid—after a tooth extraction.

Why Post-Extraction Care Matters

In the days after your dental procedure, your body begins the healing process. Proper care helps prevent complications like dry sockets and infections, ensuring optimal healing.

A key part of any optimal recovery is the formation of a blood clot at the extraction site. Blood clots protect the wound, aiding the healing process. This clot protects the bone and nerves underneath, acting like a natural bandage while new tissue grows.

Dislodging this clot too early can lead to dry socket—a painful condition where the bone is exposed to air, food particles, and bacteria buildup. This significantly delays healing and requires follow-up treatment.

Managing pain and swelling with ice packs, cold compresses and prescribed medications can prevent severe pain and excessive bleeding.

Finally, oral hygiene plays a significant role in preventing infections in the days after an extraction. Rinsing gently with warm salt water keeps the extraction site clean without disturbing the healing tissue.

The Do’s: What You Should Do After a Tooth Extraction

To ensure a smooth recovery after a tooth extraction, follow these essential steps:

• Bite Down on Gauze: Immediately after your dental procedure, your dentist will place a gauze pad over the extraction site. Bite down firmly but gently for 30–45 minutes to help blood clot formation and stop bleeding. If bleeding continues, replace the gauze and repeat the process. Avoid talking or spitting during this time to prevent disturbing the clot.
• Maintain Blood Clot: Once blood clotting begins, protect it from dislodging at the extraction site. Change the gauze pad as needed and avoid vigorous rinsing.
• Apply Ice to Reduce Swelling: Apply an ice pack  or cold compress to your cheek on the side of the extraction for 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off, during the first 24 hours. This helps minimize swelling and discomfort.
• Rest and Take It Easy: Take the rest of the day off and allow your body to focus on the healing process. Avoid strenuous activity for at least 24–48 hours. Physical exertion can increase your heart rate and blood pressure, which may dislodge the clot.
• Consume Soft Foods: For the first 1–2 days, eat soft, cool, and non-irritating foods. Stick to a diet of soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and mashed potatoes to prevent disturbing the site. Avoid straws, which might disturb the blood clot. Slowly reintroduce more solid foods as your mouth heals.
• Stay Hydrated (Without a Straw): Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and support healing. However, avoid using a straw for at least 3–5 days, as the suction can dislodge the clot and lead to dry socket.
•  Rinse with Warm Salt Water (After 24 Hours): After the first 24 hours, rinse your mouth gently with a warm saltwater solution ((1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 oz. of water) to reduce the risk of infections. Do this 2–3 times per day to keep the area clean. Don’t rinse too forcefully—let the water fall out of your mouth instead of spitting.
• Practice Gentle Oral Hygiene: Oral care always matters, even after a surgical procedure. Brush your teeth carefully, avoiding the extraction area to prevent irritation.
• Take Prescribed Medications: If your dentist has prescribed antibiotics or pain medication, take them exactly as directed. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also help manage discomfort and reduce inflammation.
• Follow All Post-Op Instructions: Your dentist may give you specific guidelines based on your extraction type. Follow their instructions carefully, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions during recovery.

Following these do's will aid in proper care and ensure a successful recovery.

The Don’ts: What to Avoid After a Tooth Extraction

Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. These proper aftercare don’ts will lessen your recovery time as well as the risk of potential complications:

• Don’t Smoke, Vape or Drink Alcohol: Smoking delays healing and dramatically increases your risk of dry socket. Nicotine reduces blood flow and can impair the body’s ability to fight off infection. Avoid all forms of tobacco and vaping for at least 72 hours, ideally a week. Alcohol may interfere with prescribed medications.
• Don’t Use a Straw: As mentioned earlier, suction can dislodge the blood clot protecting your healing socket. Even one sip through a straw can dislodge the clot, leading to excessive bleeding. Stick to drinking directly from a cup for at least 3–5 days post-extraction.
• Don’t Eat Crunchy, Sticky or Spicy Foods: Crunchy foods like chips, popcorn, or nuts can poke the healing site, while spicy foods can irritate the extraction site. Sticky foods, such as caramel, could dislodge the blood clot. Acidic or hard foods should also be avoided for the first few days.
• Don’t Rinse or Spit Forcefully: Forceful rinsing or spitting in the first 24 hours can dislodge the clot. Avoid spitting entirely during this period, and when rinsing after 24 hours, let the liquid gently fall out of your mouth.
• Don’t Touch the Extraction Site: It may be tempting to check the site with your tongue or finger—but resist the urge. Touching the area introduces bacteria and increases the risk of infection or delayed healing.
• Don’t Skip Medications or Appointments: Skipping medications can lead to pain, swelling, or infection. Also, don’t miss your follow-up appointment if one is scheduled. Your dentist will want to ensure the area is healing properly.
• Don’t Lie Flat When Resting: Lying flat can cause blood to pool in the head and may prolong bleeding. Use an extra pillow to keep your head elevated when lying down or sleeping for the first few nights.
• Don't Workout: Avoid exercise or heavy lifting. It can disturb the blood clot, slowing the healing process.
• Don't Have Poor Oral Hygiene: Avoid brushing the extraction area, but keep the rest of your mouth clean to prevent infections.

By following these guidelines, you promote proper care to aid in a speedy recovery and a smoother healing process.

Signs That You Should Call Your Dentist

While mild discomfort and swelling are normal after a tooth extraction, certain symptoms could signal a problem. Call your dentist right away if you experience:

• Excessive Bleeding: If you're still bleeding heavily after the first 24 hours, contact your dentist.
• Severe Pain: Some discomfort is normal, but if pain becomes unbearable, it needs attention. If pain worsens 2-4 days after the procedure, contact your dental professional.
• Dry Sockets: If you experience a throbbing pain several days after the extraction, it might indicate a lost blood clot.
• Swelling or Infection: Watch for swelling that doesn't reduce or is accompanied by pus. Notice if you have a foul smell or taste in your mouth. These could be signs of an infection or dry socket.
• Fever or Chills: A high fever and chills could be signs of infection, which requires prompt treatment.
• Difficulty Swallowing or Breathing: This may point to a more severe complication and should be addressed immediately.
• Persistent Numbness: Continued numbness in your face or mouth could be a sign of nerve damage.

By understanding these signs, you can ensure proper care and a successful recovery. Don't hesitate to reach out to your dentist for guidance. Remember, timely intervention is key to preventing further issues.

Bonus Tips for a Fast, Comfortable Recovery

Here are a few extra tips to help speed up your recovery process:

• Eat nutrient-rich soft foods like blended smoothies with spinach, banana, or protein powder (no seeds or chunks).
• Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks for a few days.
• Brush your other teeth carefully and avoid the extraction area until your dentist tells you it’s safe.
• Keep your mouth clean without disturbing the clot—salt water rinses help keep bacteria in check.
• Stay on top of oral hygiene and return to normal brushing and flossing routines once the site heals.

Taking care of yourself after a tooth extraction doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll protect the healing site, reduce pain, and prevent complications like dry socket or infection.

At Tend, we’re committed to helping you recover safely and comfortably. If you have any concerns or experience unusual symptoms after your procedure, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.

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