After Care for Tooth Extractions & Wisdom Tooth Extractions

What to Expect After Your Tooth Extraction

After a tooth or wisdom tooth extraction, it’s normal to experience some swelling, discomfort, and minor bleeding. These effects should gradually subside over the next few days. However, following proper after-care instructions is key to a smooth recovery and avoiding complications like dry socket. Here’s what you need to know.

How Long Should I Wait to Eat?

You’ll want to wait at least 30-60 minutes after the procedure before eating, allowing time for the blood clot to stabilize. Stick to soft, easy-to-eat foods like soup, yogurt, or mashed potatoes for the first 24 hours, avoiding anything crunchy or hard that could disturb the extraction site. Try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth to keep the area undisturbed. Avoid consuming hot foods or liquids. Avoid chewing near the extraction site and DO NOT DRINK FROM A STRAW. Using a straw may displace the clot necessary for healing.

Can Tooth Extractions Cause Dry Socket?

Yes, dry socket can occur if the blood clot protecting the extraction site is dislodged. This is more common with wisdom tooth extractions. To prevent it, avoid using straws, spitting forcefully, or rinsing your mouth too vigorously for the first 24 hours after extraction. If you experience intense pain a few days after the extraction, contact our office, as this could be a sign of dry socket.

When Is It Safe to Smoke Again?

Smoking can significantly delay healing and increase the risk of dry socket. Ideally, you should avoid smoking for a week after the procedure. The longer you can refrain, the better. Smoking during the early stages of healing can slow recovery and increase discomfort.

Can I Drink Alcohol After My Extraction?

It’s best to avoid alcohol for 3 days after your extraction. Alcohol can interfere with healing, increase bleeding, and react negatively with any pain medications prescribed. For optimal recovery, stick to water or non-alcoholic beverages until you’ve fully healed.

What Pain Relief Options Are Available?

It’s common to feel some discomfort following your extraction. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help manage pain. If you’ve been prescribed medication, take it as directed. Applying an ice pack for 20 minutes at a time can also reduce swelling during the first 24 hours.

How Should I Care for the Extraction Site?

Be gentle when cleaning around the extraction site for the first few days. Here are some care tips:

• Avoid brushing the area directly for 24 hours.
• Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water after the first 24 hours (½ teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water) DO NOT SWISH for 24-48 hours following surgery. Slowly move the water around then tilt your head down to let the water drip out.  
• Keep your head elevated when resting to reduce swelling.
• Stick to soft foods for the first few days and gradually reintroduce harder foods as you heal.

When Should I Call the Office?

If you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or swelling that worsens after the first few days, reach out to our office. It’s important to keep an eye on any unusual symptoms, especially after the first 24-48 hours of healing.