Tooth extractions can seem intimidating, but Dr. Aaron Cook and his team make the process painless and stress-free. If you are preparing for a tooth extraction or just had one, there are certain things to consider during your recovery to promote optimal healing.
Dos and Don’ts of Tooth Extraction Aftercare
1. Control Bleeding
We recommend biting on a piece of gauze to control postoperative bleeding. The pressure helps form a blood clot in the tooth socket, essential for healing. Minimal bleeding is common, but please get in touch with your dentist for assistance if it persists.
2. Manage Pain
Dr. Cook will prescribe or recommend medication to relieve pain and discomfort. Ask your dentist which over-the-counter medicines are appropriate, and always consult your physician before taking new medications, especially if you’re on heart medication or blood thinners.
3. Reduce Swelling
Place an ice pack on your cheek near the extraction site to reduce swelling and ease discomfort. Be sure to wrap the ice pack in a towel or cloth instead of placing the ice directly on your skin. We recommend placing the ice pack on your cheek for about 10 minutes, removing it for 5 minutes, and repeating the process as needed. Minimal facial bruising is normal, but it will go away on its own.
4. Get Plenty of Rest
After your tooth extraction, get plenty of rest and limit physical activities, especially those that require bending over or lifting heavy objects. Raise your head slightly or prop yourself up with pillows when lying down.
5. Watch What You Eat
Eat a healthy and nutritious soft diet, and drink plenty of liquids to stay hydrated. Soft foods include mashed bananas, lukewarm broths or blended soups, scrambled eggs, smoothies, rice, and oatmeal.
Don’t consume hot soup or beverages; room-temperature foods are advised to reduce the risk of irritating the extraction site. Also, avoid sharp, hard, or crunchy foods until the extraction site is completely healed.
6. Keep Your Mouth Clean
Avoid brushing and flossing around the extraction site, and ask your dentist when it’s ok to use toothpaste and mouth rinse. After 12 hours, you may be able to rinse your mouth but do not spit as this can dislodge the blood clot and lead to dry socket. Rinse your mouth daily with ½ teaspoon of salt and warm water.
7. Don’t Drink Alcohol or Smoke
Drinking alcohol and smoking can delay the healing process. Ask your dentist when it's safe to resume these activities.
8. Don't Suck on Ice or Spit
Within 24–48 hours after your procedure, do not suck on ice pops or candy, use a straw, or spit. Spitting or suction in the mouth can dislodge the blood clot and irritate the extraction site.
Please seek the appropriate medical attention if you have severe and unrelenting pain, bleeding, swelling, itching, rashes, fever, nausea, or vomiting.
Gentle Tooth Extraction in Birmingham, AL
Dr. Cook is a gentle, experienced dentist who can remove problematic teeth, offer restorations and replacement teeth, and help you improve your oral health. Call our dental office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Cook!