Caring for your mouth after a tooth extraction

Protecting the blood clot, cleaning appropriately and following your dentist's instructions support recovery after an extraction. Advice varies with the operation and your health. This general guide does not replace the written instructions supplied by your treating team [1] [2].

Key points

• Avoid disturbing the wound or vigorous rinsing during the first 24 hours
• Do not stop prescribed medicines yourself
• Worsening pain and persistent bleeding need advice

The first day

Rest and avoid strenuous activity. While numb, take care not to bite your cheek or tongue or burn yourself with hot food and drinks. Choose manageable food and avoid the wound when eating. Avoid smoking and alcohol. Do not touch the socket with fingers or repeatedly probe it with your tongue [1].

Keeping your mouth clean

Brush the other teeth gently and follow the team's advice about the surgical area. Gentle warm saltwater rinsing may be advised after the first 24 hours. Do not begin forceful rinsing or a medicated product without checking the appropriate timing. Stitches and more complex wounds may need specific instructions [3].

What if bleeding continues?

A little oozing can occur, but persistent bleeding needs action. Follow the gauze-pressure instructions you were given. Oral Health Foundation advice describes biting firmly on clean gauze for 20 minutes. Contact the team or seek urgent care if bleeding is heavy or does not stop [1]. Do not independently change blood thinners or prescribed aspirin.

Pain and healing

Follow an individual pain-relief plan rather than online doses or leftover antibiotics. Some swelling and discomfort can occur. Pain that worsens several days later, particularly with a bad taste or smell, may reflect dry socket or another problem that needs assessment. Do not place substances in the socket or try to clean it with an instrument [2].

When should you get help?

Seek advice for bleeding that will not stop, increasing swelling, fever or severe worsening pain. Difficulty breathing or swallowing requires emergency care. Before leaving, keep the team's contact details and ask how to get help outside normal hours [1].

Common questions

Should I remove a layer I can see on the wound?

Do not disturb it. Ask the team if its appearance concerns you, especially with worsening symptoms.

Can I skip follow-up once pain improves?

Keep any planned review, stitch appointment or discussion about replacing the tooth.

When can I resume normal activity?

Ask for guidance suited to the procedure and your work or exercise.