Post Extraction Instructions: Dos and Don’ts

In some instances, tooth extraction is the only option that will fix dental problems and oral health. It is critical that you take appropriate steps post-extraction to allow for optimal recovery. Knowing how to take the right steps to avoid as much pain, infection and get the best possible healing is important to your dental health. Below is a complete guide that lists the dos and don’ts that can be followed to care for yourself after your tooth has been extracted.

1. Follow the directions of the dentist or oral surgeon

Always follow the detailed directions that your oral surgeon or dentist has given you. These are given specifically to your individual case and formulate with the goal of providing you with the best outcome for healing.

2. Keep the Bandage on

After the extraction, apply pressure by gently biting down on the bandage to aid with stoppage of blood. Change it as needed, but don’t remove it too early. The bandage should remain on for 30-45 minutes or until you have stopped bleeding.

3. Apply Cold Compress

If you have swelling and/or bruising, place an ice pack or cold pack to the cheek of the tooth extraction for 10 to 15 minutes; for each hour in the first 24 hours.

4. Rest and Don’t Stress

Plan to be able to rest (relatively) and avoid strenuous activities and/or heavy lifting for at least 24-48 hours. This gives time for the body to heal more quickly and also helps to avoid issues such as bleeding for too long.

5. Careful Oral Hygiene

Maintain oral hygiene, but avoid irritating their extraction site. Brush gently and remember to avoid the wound.To keep your mouth clean and prevent bacteria from forming, rinse it with salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt and 8 ounces of warm water) after a day.

6. Drink Lots of Fluids and Soft Foods

You should drink fluids and replenish to avoid dehydration. Eat soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, applesauce, scrambled eggs, and smoothies to avoid hurting the wound.

Don’ts

1. Do Not Smoke or Use Tobacco Products

Smoking is bad for healing, can cause dry sockets, and can bring bacteria from the tobacco to the wound. Avoid smoking and tobacco use for 72 hours.

2. Do Not Drink With a Straw

A highly painful dry socket may arise from the blood clot coming loose due to the negative suction created by drinking with a straw. Stay away from straws for a 3-5 day period.

3. Do Not Eat Hard, Crunchy or Spicy Foods

Foods such as chips, nuts, crunchy or spicy foods will cause irritation to the wound and slow healing. Stick to soft, bland foods until you receive the dentist’s clearance to resume to your normal diet.

4. Do Not Drink Alcohol

Alcohol steals the best chance of healing, can help prevent blood from clotting and can interact with pain medications or antibiotics that have been prescribed.

5. Do Not Skip Pain Medications (if prescribed for you)

Even if you are not in pain, you should still take your prescription drugs. The medications will help control pain, and prevent infections from occurring.

6. Do Not Touch the Extraction Site

Do not poke and prod the wound with your tongue, fingers or other objects. You run the risk of loosing the blood clot and introducing bacteria to the wound.

7. Do Not Rush Back to Regular Activities

Even if you feel great, refrain from rushing back to work, rush or strenuous activities. Overdoing it, can lead to weeling, prolong the bleeding process, or make you uncomfortable.