Tooth Extraction Post-Operative Care Instructions

What to Expect

After your tooth extraction, it's completely normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding. Your body will immediately begin the healing process by forming a protective blood clot in the socket where your tooth was removed. This clot is crucial for proper healing and acts as a natural bandage.

Most patients find that the initial discomfort peaks within the first 24-48 hours and then gradually improves. Mild swelling typically develops within 2-3 hours after the procedure and may continue for 2-3 days. Some patients may notice slight bruising on their face or neck, which is also normal. The extraction site will appear as a small, dark cavity that will gradually fill in with new tissue over the coming weeks.

Complete healing usually takes 1-2 weeks for the soft tissue and 3-6 months for the bone to fully regenerate. Following these instructions carefully will help ensure the smoothest possible recovery and minimize your risk of complications.

Immediately After Your Procedure

For the First Hour:

• Keep the gauze pad placed over the extraction site with firm, constant pressure by biting down
• Replace the gauze every 30-45 minutes if bleeding continues
• Avoid talking, spitting, or moving your tongue over the extraction site

For the First 24 Hours:

• Do NOT rinse your mouth, spit forcefully, or use a straw
• Avoid smoking or using tobacco products (this significantly increases complications)
• Do not touch the extraction site with your tongue or fingers
• Sleep with your head elevated on 2-3 pillows to reduce swelling
• Apply ice packs as directed in the pain management section

Critical Don'ts for 24-48 Hours:

• No vigorous rinsing or spitting
• No drinking through straws
• No smoking or vaping
• No hot foods or beverages
• No alcohol consumption

Pain Management

Ice Therapy (First 24 Hours):

• Apply ice packs to the outside of your face for 15-20 minutes at a time
• Take 15-20 minute breaks between applications
• Continue this cycle for the first 6-8 hours while awake
• After 24 hours, switch to warm, moist heat if swelling persists

Pain Medication:

• Take any prescribed pain medication as directed by Dr. Olaes
• Over-the-counter options: Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) is often most effective for dental pain and swelling
• You may alternate ibuprofen with acetaminophen (Tylenol) as needed
• Take pain medication with food to prevent stomach upset
• Begin taking pain medication before the numbness wears off for better comfort

Important: Never exceed recommended dosages, and avoid aspirin as it can increase bleeding.

Eating and Drinking

First 24 Hours:

• Stick to cool, soft foods and liquids
• Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid straws
• Recommended foods: smoothies (no straw), yogurt, pudding, ice cream, applesauce, mashed potatoes
• Avoid: hot foods, spicy foods, crunchy or hard foods, acidic foods

Days 2-7:

• Gradually introduce slightly firmer foods as comfort allows
• Continue to chew on the opposite side of your mouth
• Good options: scrambled eggs, pasta, soft-cooked vegetables, tender fish
• Still avoid: nuts, seeds, popcorn, chips, hard candies

Week 2 and Beyond:

• Gradually return to your normal diet as the extraction site heals
• Continue to be gentle when chewing near the extraction site
• If you experience any sharp pain when eating, return to softer foods

Always stay well-hydrated, but remember - no straws for at least one week!

Oral Hygiene

First 24 Hours:

• Do NOT brush teeth immediately adjacent to the extraction site
• Avoid rinsing or using mouthwash
• You may gently brush other areas of your mouth if needed

After 24 Hours:

• Begin gentle rinsing with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt in a cup of warm water)
• Rinse gently 2-3 times daily after meals
• Resume careful brushing of other teeth, avoiding the extraction area

Days 3-7:

• Continue salt water rinses
• You may very gently brush around the extraction site with a soft toothbrush
• Avoid vigorous swishing or spitting

After One Week:

• Gradually return to your normal oral hygiene routine
• The extraction site should be comfortable enough for normal brushing
• Continue to be gentle in the area for several more weeks

Activity Restrictions

First 24-48 Hours:

• Limit physical activity and get plenty of rest
• Avoid bending over or lifting heavy objects
• No strenuous exercise, running, or gym workouts
• Avoid activities that might increase blood pressure and cause bleeding

Days 3-7:

• Light activities like walking are fine
• Avoid contact sports or activities with risk of facial injury
• Swimming should be avoided until the extraction site is well-healed
• Listen to your body - if an activity causes throbbing or pain, stop

After One Week:

• Gradually return to normal activities as comfort allows
• Use good judgment and avoid anything that could disturb the healing area
• Contact sports should be avoided for at least 2 weeks

Warning Signs - When to Call Us

Contact Carmel Mountain Dentist at (858) 487-4683 immediately if you experience:

• Heavy bleeding that doesn't stop after applying pressure for 30 minutes
• Severe pain that worsens after 2-3 days or doesn't respond to prescribed pain medication
• Signs of infection including fever over 101°F, increasing swelling after day 3, or pus discharge
• Dry socket symptoms including severe throbbing pain 3-5 days after extraction
• Numbness that persists beyond the expected timeframe
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Nausea or vomiting that prevents you from taking fluids or medication
• Allergic reaction to any prescribed medication (rash, difficulty breathing, swelling)

Don't hesitate to call with any concerns - we're here to help ensure your recovery goes smoothly.

Recovery Timeline

Day 1: Peak discomfort and swelling, follow all restrictions carefully Days 2-3: Swelling may increase, pain should begin to improve slightly Days 4-7: Noticeable improvement in comfort, swelling starts to decrease Week 2: Most soft tissue healing complete, return to normal diet usually possible Month 1: Extraction site appears more filled in, sensitivity should be minimal Months 3-6: Complete bone healing, area ready for implant placement if planned

Remember, everyone heals at their own pace. Some patients feel better sooner, while others may take the full expected time.

Tips for Faster Healing

• Stay hydrated - drink plenty of water throughout the day
• Get adequate rest - your body heals faster when well-rested
• Follow all instructions - each guideline serves an important purpose
• Attend your follow-up appointment with Dr. Olaes as scheduled
• Don't smoke or use tobacco - this dramatically slows healing
• Take medications as prescribed - stay ahead of pain and prevent infection
• Eat nutritious foods - protein and vitamins support tissue repair
• Keep the area clean - gentle oral hygiene prevents complications
• Be patient - proper healing takes time, don't rush the process
• Communicate with us - report any concerns promptly rather than waiting

Questions?

Your comfort and successful healing are our top priorities. Dr. Olaes and our experienced team at Carmel Mountain Dentist are here to support you through every step of your recovery.

If you have any concerns during your recovery, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Call Carmel Mountain Dentist at (858) 487-4683. We're here to help ensure your recovery goes smoothly.

Dr. Irene S. Olaes, DMD has over 25 years of experience helping patients achieve optimal oral health. Our office is conveniently located at 12335 World Trade Dr. Ste 1B, San Diego, CA 92128.