What to do after tooth extraction.

THE FIRST 24 HOURS: PROTECT THE CLOT

• Bite on gauze: Keep steady pressure on the pad for 30–45 minutes to stop bleeding.
• No suction: Do not use straws, smoke, vape, or spit. This prevents painful dry socket.
• Do not rinse: Do not swish liquids. Let saliva or toothpaste drool out gently.
• Elevate your head: Use extra pillows when resting to reduce throbbing and swelling.
• Rest completely: Avoid strenuous exercise, gym visits, or heavy lifting.
• Ice your cheek: Apply an ice pack for 15–20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.
• Take medications: Finish all prescribed antibiotics and pain relievers as directed.
• If narcotics or antianxiety medication is prescribed, you should avoid driving, baby sitting, handling machines, signing important documents.

DAYS 2

• Saltwater rinses: Gently rinse with warm salt water after meals starting on Day 2- 7 days, avoid any commercial mouth wash.
• Brush with care: Brush other teeth normally but completely avoid the surgical area.
• Take medications: As needed and as directed.

🍏 DIET GUIDELINES

• Days 1–2 (Liquid/Very Soft): Smoothies (no straw), yogurt, applesauce, lukewarm broth, steamed vegetables, steamed rice. .
• Days 3–7 (Soft Foods): Scrambled eggs, soft pasta, mashed potatoes, oatmeal, flaky fish.
• AVOID: Hot liquids, spicy foods, chips, nuts, seeds, popcorn, and carbonated drinks.

⚠️ WHEN TO CALL YOUR DENTIST

• Severe, throbbing pain that medications do not help.
• Heavy bleeding that does not stop after biting gauze for 20 minutes.
• A fever, foul taste in your mouth, or pus from the socket.
• Swelling that gets worse after the third day.