There are several reasons a dentist may recommend a tooth extraction, from severe decay to teeth that interfere with orthodontic treatment or impacted wisdom teeth. While the procedure is routine, proper aftercare is critical to reduce pain, prevent infection, and promote healing.
Immediate Care After Surgery
- Gauze & Bleeding: Keep pressure on the gauze placed by your dentist by gently biting down. Dampen the gauze if it dries out. Maintain pressure for 45–60 minutes, repeating as needed. Change the gauze as necessary.
- Rest & Elevation: Keep your head elevated and limit activity to reduce bleeding and swelling.
- Oral Rinse: Starting 48 hours after surgery, rinse your mouth with warm salt water every 1–2 hours. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes as they may irritate the wound.
- Oral Hygiene: Brush surrounding teeth carefully, avoiding sutures and the surgical site. Do not touch the wound with fingers or tongue.
- Swelling: Use ice packs on the face near the extraction site for the first 36–48 hours in 15-minute intervals. After 36 hours, switch to a warm, damp cloth to help reduce swelling.
- Pain & Medication: Take all prescribed medications as directed. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also be used.
- Diet: Eat soft, high-protein foods and stay hydrated. Avoid drinking through a straw for 5–7 days.
- Smoking: Refrain from smoking for 3–4 days as it increases the risk of dry socket and infection.
Recovery Timeline
Healing takes time. Sutures typically dissolve or are removed within 3–14 days. The extraction site will gradually fill with bone and smooth with surrounding tissues. Light swelling, bruising, minor bleeding, or numbness may persist but should improve over time. Difficulty opening the mouth (trismus) can occur and usually resolves within 3–5 days.
Possible Complications
- Excessive Bleeding: Slight bleeding is normal for the first 36 hours. Apply gauze or a moistened tea bag and bite gently for 30 minutes. Avoid activities that increase blood flow to the head. Contact the office if bleeding persists after 48 hours.
- Bone Sequestra: Small tooth fragments may emerge during healing. If painful, contact our office for removal.
- Dry Socket: Severe, throbbing pain that radiates to the ear may indicate dry socket. This occurs if the blood clot is dislodged. Contact the office immediately if suspected.
- Lightheadedness: Low blood sugar from fasting may cause dizziness. Stand slowly and consume soft, sugary foods if needed.
- Swelling & Trismus: Swelling should subside within 10 days. Jaw soreness and difficulty opening may occur but should improve gradually.
- Numbness: Lingering numbness can last 10–12 hours after surgery and is normal.
If you experience any unexpected complications or have concerns during your recovery, contact our office immediately so we can assist you.
