How to Take Care of Your Teeth After an Extraction

Last updated 11 months ago

Before undergoing a tooth extraction, it is important to know the dos and don’ts of caring for the extraction area. Pay close attention to the care instructions provided by your restorative dentist and follow these easy tips to make the healing process simple.

Utilize Medicine as Directed

Most extractions only require over-the-counter pain medication. If you experience swelling or pain in the first few days, consider taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen to minimize your discomfort. If pain isn’t manageable with these medications or lasts longer than a few days, contact your dentist for additional care instructions.

Ice the Area

Applying ice to the extraction site is a great way to keep swelling and pain under control immediately following the procedure. Only keep the area iced for half an hour or less at a time, and don’t use ice after the first 36 hours. Do not apply ice directly to your skin; instead, use paper towels or a washcloth to keep the skin from getting too cold.

Be Careful with Food and Drink

For 12 to 24 hours after your tooth extraction, you’ll only want to consume liquids and very soft foods. Do not suck any liquids through a straw, as this can damage the extraction site. Consider preparing some food beforehand so that you’re not left hungry during your recovery. As the area feels better, you can resume a normal diet, but chew harder foods away from the healing area.

Monitor the Extraction Site

If you experience noticeable bleeding, place gauze over the area and bite it firmly for about half an hour without chewing. You can rinse your mouth with warm salt water the day after the procedure, but avoid doing so for at least 12 hours. Seek advice from your dentist if the bleeding is heavy or will not stop.

If you’re experiencing oral pain, you may need a tooth extraction. At Kahn, Ferrari & Aldieri, DDS, we offer comprehensive dental care at our Long Island office. To schedule an appointment at our comfortable, state-of-the-art family dentistry facility, call our friendly staff today at (888) 829-9575.