Immediately After Tooth Extraction:

  1. Gauze Pressure: Bite firmly on the gauze provided by your dentist for about 1 hour, or until bleeding stops.
  2. Avoid Rinsing: Do not rinse your mouth or spit for the first 1–2 hours, as rinsing may dislodge the blood clot and cause bleeding.
  3. Do Not Touch the Wound: Do not use your tongue or fingers to touch or probe the extraction site.
  4. Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the extraction area for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling.
  5. Swallowing: Small amounts of blood or saliva can be swallowed if necessary.

 

Care on the First Day and Following Days

  • Diet: Eat soft, easy-to-digest foods such as yogurt or cold foods.

Things to Avoid

  • Very hot, spicy, or strongly flavored foods
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Strenuous exercise
  • Smoking
  • Mouthwash containing alcohol

 

When to Contact Your Dentist

  • Pain: Take painkillers as prescribed by your dentist. If pain does not improve, consult your dentist.
  • Persistent Bleeding: If bleeding continues after extraction, contact your dentist immediately.
  • Suture Removal: If sutures were placed, return to your dentist for removal approximately 7–14 days after extraction.