Things to Follow After Tooth Extraction or Dental Surgery
- mubeendesg
- Feb 19
- 2 min read
Tooth extraction is a minor surgical procedure, and some pain and swelling are expected. Recovery time varies from person to person, depending on the complexity of the extraction and the condition of the affected tooth.
It’s important not to compare your healing process with others. If tooth extraction is one part of the process, following post-care instructions is the other half—this will ensure a smooth recovery.
Post-Tooth Extraction Care Guidelines
Bite the gauze pad firmly for one hour after the extraction. Do not replace it with another gauze pad. If bleeding persists, consult your dentist immediately. Changing the gauze repeatedly can increase the risk of infection (septic ulcer).
Avoid spitting after tooth extraction, as it may trigger bleeding.
Do not touch the extraction site with your finger or tongue. Keeping the area clean is crucial.
Eat soft, cold, and non-spicy foods on the day of extraction and the following day. Suitable foods include porridge, Horlicks, buttermilk, and rasam rice. Avoid hard foods and sticky foods like biscuits, bread, and buns.
Avoid hot foods and beverages for the next 24 hours. If you consume tea or coffee, let them cool first. Cold foods are preferable.
Swelling may occur after extraction or surgery. Do not apply warm compresses or ointments. Instead, rinse with warm salt water and apply an ice pack externally to reduce swelling. Applying heat may worsen the swelling.
Refrain from smoking, chewing betel nut, tobacco, and alcohol for at least five days. These can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.
Brush your teeth the next day, but avoid the extraction site. If stitches have been placed, do not brush that area. Visit your dentist on the seventh day for suture removal.
Mild soreness, fatigue, and difficulty opening the mouth are normal and should resolve on their own.
Take prescribed medications on time without skipping doses.
If you experience any unusual symptoms, excessive pain, or bleeding, consult your dentist immediately.
If you have underlying health conditions, continue taking your regular medications as prescribed by your physician.
By following these post-care instructions, you can ensure a faster and smoother recovery.
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