Post-Operative Instructions: Tooth Extraction
Simple Steps for a Smooth Recovery
The Healing Process Starts with You
Whether you’ve had a tooth extraction, proper aftercare is essential to promote healing, prevent complications, and minimize discomfort. These instructions will guide you through the first few days of recovery so you know exactly what to do and what to avoid.
At Star Oral Surgery, we’re always here to answer questions and support your healing journey. If anything feels unclear, just give us a call.
What to Expect Right After Your Extraction
The first 24 hours are critical for forming a protective clot and starting the healing process.
- Bleeding: Bite down gently on the provided gauze for 30–45 minutes. If bleeding continues, replace with clean gauze or a damp black tea bag and bite firmly again.
- Swelling: Mild swelling is normal. Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) for the first 24 hours.
- Rest: Keep your head elevated, limit physical activity, and avoid bending or lifting. These steps help reduce bleeding and inflammation.
- Avoid suction and rinsing: Do not use a straw, rinse forcefully, or spit for 24 hours to protect the blood clot and reduce your risk of dry socket.
Pain Management
- Take pain medications exactly as prescribed. Start before the numbness wears off for best results.
- Use ibuprofen or acetaminophen if no prescription is provided—ask us what’s best for you.
- Avoid aspirin products, which may increase bleeding.
- If antibiotics are prescribed, complete the full course even if you feel fine.
Diet Guidelines
For the first few days, stick to soft, cool foods. Eat slowly and chew away from the extraction site.
Good options:
- Applesauce, yogurt, smoothies (no straw), mashed potatoes, pudding, scrambled eggs, soft pasta
Avoid:
- Hot, spicy, or crunchy foods
- Seeds, nuts, chips
- Alcohol and carbonated beverages
Drink plenty of water, but do not use a straw for at least one week.
Oral Hygiene & Wound Care
- Do not brush or rinse on the day of your surgery.
- Begin warm salt water rinses (¼ tsp salt in 8 oz warm water) the day after surgery, 3–4 times daily.
- Continue brushing and flossing other areas of your mouth—just avoid the surgical site until it begins to heal.
- Avoid mouthwash with alcohol during the first week.
Healing Timeline
- Days 1–2: Focus on rest, soft foods, and managing swelling
- Days 3–5: Gradual improvement; resume light activity
- Days 5–7: Soft tissue healing underway; sutures (if present) may begin to dissolve
- Weeks 2–4: Complete healing of soft tissue
- 3+ months: Bone healing completes internally if you’re planning a future implant
When to Call Us
Reach out immediately if you experience:
- Persistent bleeding beyond 24 hours
- Severe or worsening pain
- Signs of dry socket (deep, throbbing pain after day 3)
- Swelling that worsens instead of improving
- Fever, chills, or discharge from the site
We’re With You Every Step of the Way
Tooth extraction may seem simple, but healing well takes preparation and care. At Star Oral Surgery, we’re committed to your comfort and recovery. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions—even after hours.
Questions? Concerns? Follow-Up Needs?
Call our team at (208) XXX-XXXX or send us a message.
Need to check healing or discuss your next steps?