Last Updated on September 8, 2025 by PracticeCafe
There are many reasons why you might need a tooth extraction. Whether it’s a wisdom tooth coming in crooked, an infected tooth that needs to come out, or an extraction for any other reason, we know how stressful the aftercare process can be. That’s why we’ve put together a definitive guide to do’s and don’ts for your tooth extraction aftercare.
What is a Tooth Extraction?
First, let’s answer the question of what a tooth extraction actually is and what the procedure entails. A tooth extraction is an oral surgery procedure performed by a dentist to remove a tooth from its socket. Some of the reasons a tooth may need to get pulled are:
- Excessive decay, infection, or other damage
- Growing incorrectly and causing crowding
- Advanced periodontitis (gum disease)
While Dr. White does perform tooth extractions, he first does everything possible to save the natural tooth. If the issue is more complex, he may refer out to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
What are Dr. White’s Aftercare Tips?
Do: Get Adequate Rest After Your Extraction
It’s important to get ample rest and relaxation after your procedure to allow the extraction site to properly heal. It’s best to keep your head in an upright position as much as possible to prevent continuous blood flow and allow a clot to develop.
Do: Allow the Extraction Area to Clot
Bleeding after your tooth extraction is completely normal, but eventually the extraction site will form a clot which will prevent the area from continuously bleeding. It’s important to keep the gauze your dentist applies to the site firmly pressed against your gums in order to allow this clot to form. You may be changing out your gauze for up to an hour after your procedure. Not allowing a clot to form can increase your chances of developing an infection or dry socket.
Do: Eat Soft Foods
We recommend sticking to soft foods like soup, yogurt, and mashed potatoes for the first week following your procedure to help keep any food debris from getting caught in the extraction site which can impede the healing process.
Do: Get Your Fluids
You should drink plenty of water after your tooth extraction to keep the extraction site clear and prevent infection. Remember to not drink through a straw, though, since the sucking motion can disturb the blood clot.
Do: Address Any Swelling or Pain
Swelling and pain after a tooth extraction is completely normal and can last up to three days. Keep an ice pack handy so you can alleviate any swelling or pain. You can ice your cheek in 10-minute increments to help curb the swelling.
Don’t: Swish Any Fluids in the First 72 Hours
While it’s important to drink water and stay hydrated following your procedure, you should not be swishing any fluids in your mouth until a clot has formed. After three days have passed, you can gently swish saltwater around your mouth to help keep the extraction site clean.
Don’t: Smoke While Your Extraction Site is Healing
Smoking is damaging to your health, and can increase your chances of developing a dry socket, which often leads to infection.
Don’t: Drink Carbonated Beverages or Alcohol
Both alcohol and carbonated beverages can damage the clot in your extraction site and cause complications, so avoid drinking them for at least four days after your extraction.
Don’t: Eat Chewy or Hard Foods
Hard, crunchy, or chewy foods can damage the tooth extraction site and slow down healing. Foods to avoid in the first week following your procedure include:
- Chips
- Candies
- Steak and jerky
- Hard vegetables
Don’t: Disturb the Clot
It might feel strange to be missing a tooth, but you should avoid poking around the extraction site with your tongue or other object as the site heals. If you feel that something is off, call your dentist right away and have them carefully examine the area.
In conclusion, aftercare following a surgical procedure, like a tooth extraction, is often as important as the procedure itself. If you notice any extreme pain, discomfort, or any other concerns during your healing process, make sure to contact an experienced dental care provider like Dr. White right away. Whether you need your wisdom teeth removed, a restorative treatment, or a tooth removed to make way for orthodontic treatment, Trillium Dental delivers comprehensive dental solutions for your smile. Contact us to schedule an appointment today. We look forward to your visit!
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