🦷 After Tooth Extractions

We are committed to helping you heal comfortably and successfully after your treatment. The following instructions will guide you through your recovery and help you protect your smile. If you have any questions along the way, our team is always here to support you.

After Tooth Extractions

To promote proper healing and prevent complications such as dry socket or infection, follow these detailed guidelines:

1. Control Bleeding
   • Bite firmly on gauze for 30 to 60 minutes
   • If bleeding continues, replace gauze or use a damp black tea bag since the tannins help constrict blood vessels
   • Slight oozing is normal for the first 24 hours

2. Protect the Clot
   • Do not rinse, spit, use straws, smoke, or drink alcohol for the first 24 hours
   • Avoid sucking motions and minimize talking during the first few hours to protect the clot
   • Do not disturb the extraction site with your tongue, fingers, or food

3. Pain and Swelling Management
   • Use ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed; avoid aspirin unless prescribed
   • Apply ice packs to the outside of your face for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off during the first 24 hours
   • Switch to warm compresses the next day if swelling continues

4. Dietary Guidelines
   • Start with soft, cool or room temperature foods such as yogurt, pudding, or mashed potatoes
   • Avoid hot, spicy, acidic, crunchy, or seedy foods for at least three days
   • Stay hydrated, but sip gently from a glass rather than using a straw

5. Oral Hygiene
   • Do not brush near the extraction site for the first 24 hours
   • After 24 hours, gently rinse with warm salt water using half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of water, three to four times a day
   • Brush and floss other areas of your mouth as usual

6. Activity and Rest
   • Rest and limit activity for the first 24 to 48 hours
   • Avoid intense physical activity or lifting heavy objects as this may increase bleeding and swelling

7. Smoking and Alcohol
   • Refrain from smoking or vaping for at least 72 hours, preferably longer
   • Avoid alcohol for 24 to 48 hours, especially if taking medications or antibiotics

8. Stitches and Follow-Up
   • Some stitches dissolve on their own in five to ten days
   • If you have stitches that do not dissolve, we will schedule an appointment for removal
   • Keep your follow-up visit to ensure proper healing

9. When to Call Us
   Contact us immediately if you experience
   • Persistent bleeding after several hours
   • Severe pain after three days, which may indicate dry socket
   • Signs of infection such as fever, pus, or swelling that worsens
   • Allergic reaction to medication
   • Difficulty swallowing or breathing

💙 A Note from Our Team

At David Silberman DDS, your comfort and well-being are always our top priority. We understand that healing takes time, and we are here to support you through every step of your recovery.

Please follow these instructions carefully and allow your body the rest it needs. Stay hydrated, eat well, and take things slow. Your smile is worth it. If you have any questions or notice anything out of the ordinary, do not hesitate to reach out. Dr. Portelles, Dr. Pila, and the entire team are here for you.

Wishing you a smooth and speedy recovery. Thank you for trusting us with your care.

With care,

The David Silberman DDS Team