Tooth EXTRACTION AFTERCARE: PROTECT YOUR HEALING SMILE

Your tooth extraction site needs proper care to heal comfortably and prevent complications. Following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.

STOPPING THE BLEEDING
After your extraction, bite firmly on the gauze provided for 30 minutes. This pressure helps a blood clot form, which is essential for healing.
If bleeding continues, replace the gauze and keep applying pressure. You can also use a tea bag—soak it in cold water and bite down on it for another 30 minutes to help control bleeding.

WHAT TO AVOID FOR THE FIRST 24 HOURS
To protect the blood clot and prevent a painful condition called dry socket, avoid the following:

• Smoking
• Drinking through a straw
• Alcohol or carbonated beverages
• Hot foods or drinks
• Blowing your nose (especially for upper extractions)
• Excessive spitting or vigorous rinsing

Dislodging the clot can delay healing and cause unnecessary pain. If this happens, contact our office right away.

REDUCE SWELLING AND DISCOMFORT
Apply a cold compress to the area:

• Use ice chips inside the mouth
• Place an ice pack on the outside of your face near the surgical site

This helps minimize swelling and provides comfort.

EAT SOFT FOODS
Stick to a soft diet for the rest of the day. Good options include:

• Warm (not hot) soup
• Ice cream
• Milkshakes
• Smoothies (no straw)
• Yogurt or soft desserts

Avoid anything hard, crunchy, or hot.

MEDICATION GUIDELINES
If medications were prescribed, take them exactly as directed.
Begin pain medication before the numbness wears off to stay ahead of discomfort.

PAIN MANAGEMENT (OVER-THE-COUNTER OPTIONS)
For Moderate Pain:

• 1 tablet Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 500 mg
• Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) 400 mg
  
• Every 4–6 hours as needed
  (Note: Ibuprofen typically comes in 200 mg tablets—take 2–3 tablets per dose.)

For Severe Pain:

• 2 tablets Extra Strength Acetaminophen (500 mg each)
• Ibuprofen 600 mg
  
• Every 6–8 hours as needed
• Or take prescribed medication as directed

Important: Do not take these medications if you are allergic or have been advised by your doctor not to use them.

AFTER 24 HOURS: GENTLE RINSING
Begin rinsing gently with warm salt water:

• Mix ¼ teaspoon salt in 1 cup of warm water
• Rinse after brushing at night for the next 2 days

Do not rinse forcefully.

WHEN TO CALL US
If you experience:

• Persistent or worsening pain
• Continued bleeding
• Swelling that does not improve
• Any concerns about healing

Please contact our office right away at (562) 424-9473. We’re here to help you heal safely and comfortably.

TAKEAWAY
Caring for your extraction site properly is the key to avoiding complications and ensuring a smooth recovery. A little extra attention now will help you get back to normal quickly—with a healthy, comfortable smile.

​Jeff Velasquez, DDS
541 W. Willow St.
Long Beach, CA 90806
562-424-9473