Top 10 Questions Asked After Extractions

What happens after tooth extraction?

You may experience some swelling and residual bleeding for 24 hours after your extraction. You will be provided with guaze, a syringe to irrigate the area, and an ice pack to help you recover.

When can I brush my teeth with toothpaste after an extraction?

It is advised not to brush the extraction site for 3-4 days to prevent the blood clots from dislodging. Use a wet guaze to clean the extraction site until then.

When can I sleep on my side after tooth extraction?

It is recommended to not sleep on your side for approximately seven days after your extraction. Sleep on your back to prevent adding extra pressure and disrupting the blood clots.

How do you know if your tooth extraction is infected?

If the bleeding continues for more than 24 hours and you experience unusual odor/discharge from your mouth, contact your dentist immeditely as these are signs of an infection.

How soon after a tooth extraction can I eat?

Wait at least an hour after your extraction to eat something. Make sure to eat soft foods for the first 24 hours and avoid hot foods/drinks. Also, do not drink from a straw for the first day.

How do I know if my tooth extraction is healing properly?

A blood clot will begin to form 24 hours after your extraction to stop the bleeding. 3 days after your extraction, you will feel a little discomfort, but your gums will begin healing and closing around the site. In about a week, the extraction site should be closed and you should no longer feel sore or tender.

How do I know if I have dry socket or normal pain?

Normal healing sockets get less painful over time. Dry sockets, on the other hand, become increasingly painful and may even have an unpleasant odor.

What does a dry socket look like?

After an extraction, there may be a hole on the extraction site. That is called a dry socket. Exposed bones may be visible within the socket and appear empty/whitish color.

Can I use mouthwash after tooth extraction?

Avoid using mouthwash for about a week after the extraction to avoid disruption of the blood clots. Warm water and salt solution can be used to rinse the extraction site.

How long does breath stink after tooth extraction?

You may experience foul breath following your extraction as you cannot brush and floss normally for a couple of days. Make sure to rinse the extraction site and let it heal completely. If have increasing pain and are still experiencing bad breath a couple days after your extraction, you may have a dry socket. Contact your dentist ASAP if you believe this is the case.