Dental Extraction Aftercare: What You Need to Know

Getting a tooth pulled may not be anyone’s idea of fun, but taking care of your mouth afterward is crucial for a smooth recovery. Proper aftercare can help you avoid complications like dry socket and speed up the healing process, so you can get back to your normal routine as soon as possible. At High Point Dentistry, with locations in East Austin, Round Rock, South Congress, and South Austin, we want to make sure you’re fully prepared to handle the next few days like a pro. Here’s what you need to know!

1. Take It Easy

You might feel fine after the procedure, but your body needs rest to heal properly. Take it easy for the first 24 hours—no heavy lifting, intense exercise, or any activity that could raise your blood pressure. Stick to a light schedule and avoid bending over too much, as these actions can increase bleeding.

2. Manage the Bleeding

It’s normal to experience some light bleeding or oozing right after your dental extraction. To control it, bite down gently on a piece of gauze for about 30 minutes. If bleeding continues, replace the gauze and try again. Avoid spitting or using a straw, as the suction can dislodge the clot and delay healing.

3. Keep the Area Clean, But Don’t Overdo It

Good oral hygiene is important, but you’ll need to be gentle around the extraction site. Don’t rinse or brush near the area for the first 24 hours. After that, rinse with warm salt water (about ½ teaspoon of salt in a cup of water) a few times a day to keep the area clean. Be careful not to swish too forcefully!

4. Stick to Soft Foods

For the first few days, stick to soft, easy-to-eat foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies (skip the straw, though!). Avoid hot or spicy foods, as well as anything that’s crunchy or chewy. Slowly reintroduce harder foods as you feel comfortable.

5. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

This one’s a biggie! Smoking and alcohol can interfere with the healing process, so it’s best to steer clear for at least 72 hours—or longer if possible. Smoking, in particular, can increase your risk of developing dry socket, a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot is dislodged.

6. Watch for Signs of Trouble

Some swelling and discomfort are normal after an extraction, but keep an eye out for anything unusual, like severe pain, persistent bleeding, or a bad taste in your mouth. These could be signs of an infection or dry socket. If anything feels off, don’t hesitate to call your dentist.

Smooth Dental Extraction Aftercare at High Point Dentistry in East Austin, Round Rock, South Congress, and South Austin

Taking care of your mouth after a dental extraction might seem like a hassle, but it’s well worth the effort for a smooth recovery. Whether you’ve just had a simple tooth pulled or a more complicated extraction, the team at High Point Dentistry is here to support you through every step of the healing process. If you have any questions or post-op concerns during your recovery, give us a call at any of our convenient locations—we’re always happy to help you get back to feeling your best!

Categorised in: Dental Extractions