Getting a tooth pulled isn’t something most people look forward to, but sometimes it’s necessary for your oral health. Whether it’s due to decay, infection, crowding, or wisdom teeth removal, proper aftercare is key to healing quickly and avoiding complications. At Growing Smiles Pediatric & Family Dentistry, we help both children and adults in Voorhees, Mount Laurel, and Cherry Hill, NJ, recover comfortably after a tooth extraction. Follow these tips to make your healing process as smooth as possible.
What to Expect After a Tooth Extraction
After a tooth is removed, your body begins healing right away. A blood clot forms in the empty socket, protecting the bone and nerves underneath. Keeping this clot in place is essential for a smooth recovery. If it becomes dislodged too soon, it can lead to dry socket, a painful condition that slows healing.
In the first 24 hours, you may experience:
✔ Mild bleeding, which should stop within a few hours.
✔ Swelling in the area of the extraction.
✔ Tenderness or soreness, which improves over the next few days.
Essential Aftercare Tips
Managing Bleeding and Swelling
✔ Bite down on gauze for 30–45 minutes to help stop bleeding. If bleeding continues, replace the gauze and apply gentle pressure.
✔ Rest and take it easy. Avoid exercise or heavy lifting, as these can increase bleeding.
✔ Use ice packs in 15-minute intervals to reduce swelling and discomfort.
✔ Avoid strenuous rinsing, straws, or spitting forcefully, as this can dislodge the clot.
Eating and Drinking After an Extraction
Your diet plays an important role in healing. Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods, such as:
✔ Mashed potatoes
✔ Yogurt
✔ Scrambled eggs
✔ Applesauce
✔ Smoothies (without a straw!)
Drink plenty of water, but skip carbonated, alcoholic, or hot beverages, as they can irritate the area.
What to Avoid During Recovery
❌ Smoking or vaping (these slow healing).
❌ Touching the extraction site with your tongue or fingers (this introduces bacteria).
❌ Crunchy, spicy, or hard foods that could irritate the area.
❌ Straws or spitting forcefully, as these can cause dry socket.
Oral Hygiene and Pain Management
✔ After 24 hours, gently rinse with warm saltwater to keep the area clean.
✔ Continue brushing and flossing, but avoid the extraction site for the first few days.
✔ Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as needed.
When to Call Your Dentist
Some discomfort is normal, but contact your dentist if you experience:
✔ Severe pain that doesn’t improve
✔ Excessive bleeding after 24 hours
✔ Fever, pus, or signs of infection
Tooth Extractions in Voorhees, Mount Laurel, and Cherry Hill, NJ
Following these aftercare tips will help you heal quickly and avoid complications. At Growing Smiles Pediatric & Family Dentistry, our team is here to support you before, during, and after your tooth extraction. Whether you or your child needs a tooth removed, we’ll provide expert care and guidance to ensure a smooth recovery.
If you have concerns about healing or need to schedule a follow-up, contact us today—we’re happy to help!