Having a tooth pulled isn’t anyone’s idea of fun. However, sometimes it’s a necessary step toward better oral health. Whether it’s a wisdom tooth removal or a decayed tooth that had to go, proper aftercare is essential to ensure smooth healing and avoid complications like infection or dry socket. Knowing what to expect and how to care for your mouth in the hours and days after tooth extraction can make all the difference in your recovery.
The First 24 Hours: Crucial for Clot Formation
Immediately after the extraction, your dentist or oral surgeon will place a gauze pad over the socket to help a blood clot form. This clot is critical to healing, as it protects the underlying bone and nerves and provides a foundation for new tissue to grow. It’s important to keep this clot in place, which means no aggressive rinsing, no drinking through straws, and no smoking. These activities can dislodge the clot and lead to dry socket, a painful condition that can delay healing.
During this time, rest is key. Keep your head elevated, even when lying down, to minimize bleeding and swelling. Apply a cold compress on the outside of your cheek near the extraction site for 15-minute intervals to help reduce inflammation. You might experience some mild bleeding, which is normal. But if bleeding continues beyond a few hours or becomes heavy, you should contact your dentist right away.
Managing Pain and Swelling
Mild to moderate discomfort is expected following a tooth extraction, but it should be manageable. Your dentist may prescribe pain medication, or recommend over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. It’s best to take these as directed and stay ahead of the pain rather than waiting for it to become severe.
Swelling typically peaks around 48 to 72 hours after the procedure. Continuing with cold compresses during the first day and switching to warm compresses on the second or third day can help soothe lingering inflammation. If you notice significant swelling, pus, or a fever, these may be signs of an infection and warrant immediate medical attention.
Eating and Drinking Carefully
After a tooth extraction, your diet plays an important role in recovery. Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies (as long as you don’t use a straw). Hot foods and drinks should be avoided for at least 24 hours, as heat can dissolve the clot or cause bleeding. As healing progresses over the next few days, you can gradually reintroduce more solid foods, but always chew away from the extraction site. Stay hydrated, but remember no alcohol, carbonated beverages, or anything through a straw. These can interfere with healing or increase your risk of complications.
Keeping the Area Clean
Oral hygiene is still important after an extraction, but it has to be done gently. You should avoid brushing the immediate area of the extraction for the first 24 hours. After that, you can start brushing the surrounding teeth carefully. Rinsing your mouth gently with a warm saltwater solution after meals helps keep the area clean and free of bacteria. Avoid using commercial mouthwash unless specifically recommended by your dentist.
Monitoring the Healing Process
Healing from a tooth extraction is generally straightforward. Over the next one to two weeks, the gum tissue will gradually close over the socket. During this period, it’s essential to monitor how you’re feeling. If pain worsens instead of improving, or if you experience an unpleasant taste, swelling, or fever, reach out to your dental provider. These could be signs of infection or other complications that may require follow-up care.
When to Return to Normal Activities
Most people can return to work or school within a day or two after a routine extraction, although strenuous physical activity should be avoided for at least 48 to 72 hours. Heavy exercise can increase blood pressure and potentially restart bleeding in the socket. Once the bleeding has stopped and you’re no longer taking prescription painkillers, you’re generally safe to resume your regular routine.
Tooth Extraction in Roslyn Heights, NY
At East Hills Dental Associates, we understand how intimidating a tooth extraction can be. We work hard to ensure every patient has a safe and comfortable experience for every appointment. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the extraction procedure.