After tooth extraction

After your tooth extraction, please follow these instructions to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of complications:

1. Bite down gently on the gauze pad placed on the extraction site for at least 30 minutes after the procedure.
2. Avoid eating or drinking anything until the numbness from the local anaesthetic has worn off to prevent accidentally biting your tongue or cheek.
3. Avoid spitting, rinsing, interfering with the socket, or using a straw for at least 24 hours to prevent dislodging the blood clot that forms in the extraction site.
4. You can continue to brush your teeth gently, avoiding the extraction site
5. After 24 hours keep the extraction area clean by gently rinsing your mouth with ¼ teaspoon household salt in a glass of warm water at least three times a day. Avoid swishing or vigorous rinsing.
6. Apply an ice pack to your cheek for 10-20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling and pain.
7. Eat soft foods like soup, yogurt, or mashed potatoes for the first few days after the extraction.
8. Avoid hot food and drinksas it may cause bleeding during the first 24 hours after tooth extraction
9. Bleeding: To control bleeding, place a large pad of gauze or a clean folded handkerchief over the bleeding socket and bite down firmly for 30 minutes.
10. Pain: Take pain medication as prescribed by the dentist or over-the-counter pain relievers as needed, being careful to follow the instructions on the packet. Do not use aspirin.
11. Stitches: If you have stitches, these will dissolve within two weeks.

Smoking increases the risk of poor healing following extraction.  Avoid smoking, vaping, or using tobacco products for at least 24 hours.

Alcohol increases the risk of bleeding. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours.

If you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain, or fever, please phone us immediately.