Bleeding & Clot Protection
- Bite firmly on the gauze pad placed by your dentist for 30–45 minutes to control bleeding.
- Avoid spitting, rinsing forcefully, or using a straw for at least 48–72 hours — these actions can dislodge the blood clot.
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products during recovery, as this significantly increases the risk of dry socket.
- If bleeding persists, bite down on a fresh gauze pad or a moistened tea bag (the tannins help promote clotting).
Swelling & Discomfort
- Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek in 15-minute on/off intervals for the first 24 hours.
- Take over-the-counter or prescribed pain medication as directed by your provider.
- Keep your head elevated, even while sleeping, to reduce swelling.
- Some swelling and mild bruising is normal and typically peaks around 48 hours post-procedure.
Eating & Drinking
- Stick to soft foods for the first few days — yogurt, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soup (not too hot) are great options.
- Avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy foods until the site has healed.
- Stay hydrated with water, but skip the straw.
- Gradually reintroduce firmer foods as comfort allows over the following week.
Oral Hygiene
- Avoid brushing directly over the extraction site for the first 24 hours.
- After 24 hours, you may gently rinse with warm salt water (1/2 tsp salt in 8 oz water) a few times daily.
- Continue brushing and flossing the rest of your mouth normally.
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When to Call Our Office
- Severe or worsening pain after the first 48 hours (may indicate dry socket).
- Swelling, fever, or signs of infection (pus, foul taste, or odor).
- Bleeding that doesn't slow down after applying pressure for 30+ minutes.
Questions about your recovery? Don't hesitate to call Bethesda Center for Family and Cosmetic Dentistry — we're always happy to help guide you through the healing process.
