After Tooth Extraction

After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form and begin the healing process. That’s why we ask you to bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place another wet gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times. After the blood clot forms, it is important not to disturb or dislodge the clot as it aids healing. Do not rinse vigorously, use straws, smoke, drink alcohol or brush the extraction site for 72 hours. These activities will dislodge or dissolve the clot and retard the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours. After the tooth is extracted you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen food applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum.  Sip on ice water as it will cool the area directly. Take pain medications as prescribed. The swelling usually subsides after 48-72 hours. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time, even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone.

Drink lots of fluids and eat nutrition-rich soft foods on the day of the extraction. You can eat normally as soon as you are comfortable. It is important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours. This should include brushing twice and flossing your teeth at least once a day. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for more than 2-3 days or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately at New York Office Phone Number 212-986-4830.