Do’s and Don’ts After a Tooth Extraction

Do’s and Don’ts After a Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure, often recommended when a tooth is severely decayed, infected, impacted, or damaged beyond repair. While the procedure itself is usually quick and painless with modern dentistry, the healing phase requires proper care. Following the right aftercare instructions helps prevent complications such as infection, excessive bleeding, or dry socket.

Here’s a simple guide to what you should and shouldn’t do after a tooth extraction.

Do’s After a Tooth Extraction

1. Bite on the Gauze Pad
Keep the gauze pad in place for at least 30–45 minutes to control bleeding and help a blood clot form at the extraction site.

2. Apply an Ice Pack
Use an ice pack on your outer cheek at 10–15 minute intervals to reduce swelling during the first 24 hours.

3. Get Plenty of Rest
Avoid strenuous activity for the first 24 hours. Resting helps your body focus on healing.

4. Eat Soft Foods
Stick to soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, soups, and smoothies for the first few days.

5. Keep Your Head Elevated
Use an extra pillow when sleeping to reduce bleeding and promote clot stability.

6. Maintain Oral Hygiene Gently
Brush your teeth carefully, avoiding the extraction area. After 24 hours, rinse with warm saltwater to keep the mouth clean.

Don’ts After a Tooth Extraction

1. Don’t Spit, Rinse, or Use a Straw for 24 Hours
These actions can dislodge the blood clot, leading to a painful condition known as dry socket.

2. Don’t Smoke or Consume Alcohol
Smoking slows healing and increases the risk of infection and dry socket. Alcohol can interfere with medication and irritate the wound.

3. Don’t Eat Hard, Spicy, or Crunchy Foods
Chips, nuts, spicy food, and carbonated drinks can irritate the wound or get stuck in the extraction site.

4. Don’t Touch the Area with Your Tongue or Fingers
Disturbing the area can cause irritation, infection, or dislodge the clot.

5. Don’t Ignore Persistent Pain or Bleeding
If pain worsens after 2–3 days or bleeding doesn’t slow down, seek professional help.

When to Contact Your Dentist

Call your dentist immediately if you experience:

• Severe or increasing pain after 48 hours
• Persistent bleeding
• Bad taste or foul smell in the mouth
• Fever or swelling that worsens

Final Thoughts

Proper aftercare plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and comfortable recovery after tooth extraction. Being mindful of these do’s and don’ts will help protect the extraction site and speed up healing.

For safe extractions and expert post-procedure guidance, visit Gargi’s Dental Care, Kolkata. Our experienced team ensures painless treatment and personalised aftercare for a faster, healthier recovery. Book your appointment today to experience gentle and reliable dental care.