Patient Education

Post-Operative Instructions After A Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is a minor surgical procedure - please take a few minutes to review the following:

  1. After an extraction, it is important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. Please stay closed on the gauze for at least one hour after the extraction with firm pressure. If bleeding continues, stay closed on the gauze until the bleeding is controlled.
  2. Smoking will delay and may prevent healing. Avoid for at least 48 hours.
  3. For the first 24 hours, avoid rinsing your mouth vigorously as this may cause the area to bleed. After the first 24 hours, you can gently rinse with warm salt water (1 cup of warm water with 1 tsp of salt)
  4. Avoid brushing the area for the first 24 hours. Resume normal brushing and flossing after 24 hours.
  5. Limit yourself to calm activities for the next 24 hours.
  6. It is normal to feel some discomfort and have mild swelling that usually will begin to diminish after the second day. You can use an ice bag for the first 24 hours (20 minutes on/off) if you notice any swelling
  7. If antibiotics were prescribed, be sure to take for the full duration even if your symptoms are gone.
  8. Eat normally.

Please call our office if:

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