After a tooth extraction

To speed up the healing process, we strongly suggest following the recommendations outlined below. However, please remember that it is normal to feel some discomfort and to experience swelling in the lower part of your face after a tooth extraction.

On the day of the surgery
  • Keep the compresses in your mouth for an hour or two and apply firm pressure. Change the compresses every 30 minutes, as needed
  • Keep your head upright at all times
  • Apply a cold compress to your cheek at regular intervals (20 minutes an hour)
  • In case of bleeding, bite down on some gauze or a slightly dampened tea bag for about 20 minutes
  • Many patients experience bleeding and notice a reddish tint in their saliva
  • Limit physical activities

Things to avoid
  • Do not remove the scab as it helps to promote healing
  • Do not eat until the bleeding stops
  • Do not drink through a straw
  • Do not rinse your mouth or spit
  • Do not smoke or drink alcohol
  • Do not eat foods that are difficult to chew
  • Do not brush your teeth near the extraction area within 72 hours of the procedure
Pain

Take the medication prescribed to you, as needed. Also, take the antibiotics for the entire duration prescribed, even if you no longer feel any symptoms.

Suggested foods

The day of the extraction, only consume soft foods and warm beverages. Once you feel better, you can eat and drink as you normally would.

Starting the day after the surgery up until you’re fully healed
  • Rinse your mouth three times a day with a mixture of warm water and salt (1/2 tsp. of salt in 1 cup of water)
  • Brush and floss your teeth every day to remove plaque and to ensure better long-term results. Avoid brushing your teeth near the extraction area within 72 hours of the procedure
  • Avoid eating hard food (nuts, candy, ice)
  • It may be difficult for you to pronounce some words and you may have more saliva than usual. You should be back to normal in less than a week.
  • Bruises may appear on your skin. They will gradually disappear in five to seven days
  • You may also have difficulty opening your mouth. This discomfort will go away in about five days
  • If pain gets worse after three days, do not hesitate to call us

You should be feeling better and able to resume normal activities within a few days. If you experience pain, excessive bleeding, swelling that lasts two to three days, or a reaction to the prescribed medication, please call us right away.