What to Do After Teeth Removal? 5 Essential Aftercare Tips

Recovering from a tooth extraction is easier with proper post-teeth removal care. Mild swelling, bleeding, and discomfort are normal but gradually fade as healing progresses. By following your dentist’s advice and understanding what to do after teeth removal, you can prevent complications and heal faster. This guide covers everything you need to know to heal quickly and comfortably after a tooth extraction.

What We'll Cover:

• • 5 Tooth Extraction Aftercare Tips
• • How Long Does It Take to Recover
• • When to Contact Your Dentist

Find out more below.

5 Tooth Extraction Aftercare Tips

1. Maintain Oral Hygiene Safely

• Avoid rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours to allow the protective blood clot to form and stabilise.
• After 24 hours, rinse gently with warm salt water (½ teaspoon of salt in a cup of water) to keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection.
• Do not use mouthwashes containing alcohol, as they can irritate the extraction site and slow healing.

2. Manage Pain & Swelling Effectively

• Apply an ice pack to the affected side of your face for 15-20 minutes at a time during the first 24 hours to reduce swelling and numb discomfort.
• Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by your dentist to manage post-extraction pain.
• After the first 24 hours, switch to a warm compress to improve blood circulation and promote faster healing.

3. What to Eat & Avoid After Tooth Extraction

• Stick to soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, soups, scrambled eggs, and smoothies to avoid putting pressure on the extraction site.
• Avoid hot, hard, crunchy, or spicy foods, as they can irritate the area and slow down the healing process.

4. Preventing Dry Socket & Other Complications

• A dry socket is a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged too soon. To prevent this, avoid smoking, and using tobacco products.
• Refrain from touching the extraction site with your fingers or tongue to prevent contamination and irritation.

5. Additional Recovery Tips

• Get plenty of rest: Minimise physical activities for at least 24-48 hours to allow your body to focus on healing.
• Keep your head elevated: Use an extra pillow while sleeping to reduce swelling and promote blood circulation.
• Eat nutrient-rich foods: A diet rich in vitamins A, C, and protein can support tissue repair and speed up recovery.

How Long Does It Take to Recover

Mild discomfort and swelling are expected, but certain symptoms may indicate complications that require immediate attention. If you experience persistent or excessive bleeding beyond 24 hours, worsening pain, or signs of infection such as pus, fever, or a bad taste in your mouth, contact your dentist. Prolonged numbness or tingling may indicate nerve damage and should also be assessed by a professional.

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