Post-Operative Care for Tooth Extractions
Thank you for choosing Renwick Dental for your tooth extraction. While removing a tooth is a straightforward procedure, proper aftercare is essential for healing and comfort. Please follow the instructions below to help your recovery go as smoothly as possible.
What to Expect After Your Extraction Appointment
Bleeding
Mild bleeding or oozing is normal for the first few hours after your extraction. You’ll leave your appointment with gauze placed over the site—please bite down on it firmly for 30–60 minutes to help a blood clot form.
If bleeding continues, replace the gauze and bite down again. Pink saliva is normal for the first day or so.
Swelling or Tenderness
You may experience mild swelling or tenderness around the area. This is part of the healing process and usually subsides within a couple of days. A cold compress (15–20 minutes on, then 20 minutes off) during the first 24–48 hours can help reduce swelling.
Discomfort
Some soreness in the area is expected as the numbing wears off. Most people find it manageable with over-the-counter pain relief (see below). Discomfort should steadily improve over the next few days.
Post-Extraction Care Instructions
Oral Hygiene
- Avoid brushing directly over the extraction site for the first 24 hours.
- After 24 hours, you can gently rinse with warm saltwater (1 tsp salt in a cup of warm water) 2–3 times a day, especially after meals.
- Continue brushing and flossing the rest of your mouth as usual, being gentle near the site.
Diet
- Stick to soft foods for the first 1–2 days (e.g., soup, mashed potatoes, yoghurt, scrambled eggs).
- Avoid hot, spicy, hard, or crunchy foods that could irritate the area.
- Do not use straws or spit forcefully for at least 3–5 days, as this can dislodge the blood clot and lead to dry socket, a painful condition.
Pain Relief
- You can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or paracetamol, following the directions on the packaging.
- If we have prescribed any medication, please take it as instructed.
- A cold compress may help reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the first 48 hours.
Rest
- Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 1–2 days after the extraction.
- Keep your head elevated when lying down to help minimise bleeding and swelling.
What to Expect Moving Forward
Healing Time
Healing usually progresses well over the first 1–2 weeks. The area will gradually close over with gum tissue, and any tenderness should subside. The full healing of the socket can take several weeks to a few months.
Dry Socket Prevention
To reduce your risk of dry socket, please avoid:
- Smoking or vaping for at least 5 days
- Drinking through straws
- Aggressive rinsing or spitting
- Chewing directly on the extraction site
When to Contact Us
Please reach out to Renwick Dental if you experience:
- Severe or worsening pain, especially after 3 days
- Prolonged or heavy bleeding that doesn’t stop with gauze
- Signs of infection such as pus, swelling, fever, or a bad taste in your mouth
- Difficulty opening your mouth or persistent discomfort
- Any other concerns about your healing or the extraction site
Questions or Concerns? We’re Always Here to Help
If you have any questions during your recovery, please don’t hesitate to contact the friendly team at Renwick Dental. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
