Post-Op Instructions: Tooth Extractions

Proper aftercare is essential following certain dental procedures in modern dentistry, especially tooth extractions. Following these guidelines will help promote healing, reduce discomfort, and prevent complications such as dry socket or infection.

First 24 Hours After Your Dental Procedure

Bite on gauze:
Keep firm pressure on the gauze pad for 30–45 minutes after leaving the office. If bleeding continues, replace with a new piece and bite firmly for another 30–45 minutes.
 
Do not disturb the area:
Avoid touching the extraction site with your fingers or tongue. Do not rinse vigorously during the first 24 hours, as this may disrupt the blood clot that protects the area.

Bleeding:
Some oozing is normal. If heavy bleeding persists, dampen a tea bag (contains tannic acid, which helps clotting) and bite gently for 30 minutes.
 
Rest & Activity:
Limit physical activity and keep your head slightly elevated. Rest supports healing after dentistry treatments.
 
Ice Therapy:
Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek for 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off, to reduce swelling and inflammation.
 

Eating & Drinking

    • Choose soft, cool foods such as yogurt, smoothies, soup, scrambled eggs, or mashed potatoes.
    • Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or hard foods for the first 48 hours.
    • Do not use a straw, spit forcefully, or smoke. These can dislodge the clot and cause dry socket, a common complication following dental procedures.
    • Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and support healing.

Oral Hygiene After an Extraction

Maintaining proper oral hygiene is important, but special care is needed around the surgical area.
    • Do not brush directly over the extraction site for the first 24 hours.
    • After 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water (½ teaspoon salt in 8 oz warm water) 3–4 times per day, especially after meals.
    • Continue normal brushing and flossing away from the extraction site.

Pain Management & Medications

    • or prescribed pain medications as directed by your dentist.
    • If antibiotics are prescribed, take the full course, even if you feel better.
    • Mild swelling, discomfort, and light bruising are normal following dental procedures such as extractions.

Healing Expectations

    • Gum tenderness, mild bleeding, and slight bruising may occur.
    • If stitches were placed, they may dissolve on their own or be removed at your follow-up appointment.
    • It is common for soreness to increase slightly around day three as the bone begins its natural healing process.

Contact Our Dentistry Office Immediately If You Experience:

    • Severe pain not relieved by medication
    • Excessive bleeding that won’t stop
    • Fever, chills, or signs of infection
    • Swelling that worsens after 3 days
    • Difficulty breathing or swallowing

Call Lowcountry Family Dentistry

If you have any concerns, please call our office at (843-651-6776) If it’s after hours and you experience an emergency, please go to the nearest urgent care or emergency room.