A tooth extraction is a surgical procedure. While you should recover quickly and return to your normal activities within a few days, there are a few simple guidelines that you should follow to promote proper healing and avoid any complications.

  • Your mouth will be numb for a few hours after the extraction. Do not bite or chew until the numbness wears off. You may want to take a mild pain reliever prior to the anesthetic wearing off so that you can alleviate any discomfort.
  • Continue to bite down on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes after the procedure. If bleeding or oozing continues, you may place more gauze or a tea bag over the site and bite down for another hour.
  • Keep your fingers and tongue away from the extraction site.
  • Do not smoke, suck through a straw, rinse your mouth or clean the teeth next to the extraction site for at least 24 hours.
  • Limit yourself to calm activities for at least 24 hours.
  • Do not stand up too quickly (or you may pass out).
  • You may feel pressure or experience some swelling. You can minimize this with an ice pack. Swelling should go down after about 48 hours.
  • Take medications as directed.
  • Drink lots of fluids, and eat only soft, nutritious foods on the day of extraction. Do not drink carbonated beverages or eat hot or spicy foods. You may begin eating normally the next day or as soon as you are comfortable.
  • Rinse gently after meals to keep food out of the extraction site.
  • Resume your normal dental routine (brushing, flossing, etc.) 24 hours after your extraction

If you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain or a reaction to prescribed medication, please contact Davidson Cosmetic & Family Dentistry at 704-987-2277.