Care After Tooth Removal (Tooth Extraction)

Retain the cotton plug placed by the dentist at the site of tooth removal for 15 to 30 minutes which aids in arresting the bleeding from extraction site. After the prescribed duration, it is recommended to remove the cotton plug with hand and then discard it rather than spitting.
Few drops of blood might be seen at the tooth removal site for one to two days following the tooth removal. It is better to swallow it rather than spitting. In case of extreme psychological discomfort in doing so, you can rinse & spit very gently without vigorous gargling.
The numbness developed due to anesthesia might last for few hours during which you shouldn’t consume any hot and solid foods. Many a times, your dentist will suggest you to have a cup of ice cream (without nuts and toppings). It will aid in smoothening and adding calories which will keep you comfortable.

In cases that involved bone drilling, you are advised to place ice pack externally adjacent to the area of the tooth removal for the initial 2-3 days. It provides comfort and prevents excessive swelling of cheeks after the treatment.
For the initial few days following the tooth removal, you are advised to replace brushing with gargling using the mouthwash prescribed by your dentist. Gargling/rinsing and spitting of the mouthwash must be done very gently.
There is no restriction with regard to diet. However it is better to avoid spicy food for 7-10 days which may cause irritation and pain at the tooth removal site.
If the tooth removed is the wisdom tooth/third molars involving bone drilling and suture placement, you might develop swelling on day 2 which might increase till day 3-4 and then gradually subside. During this phase you will have restricted mouth opening and difficulty in chewing food. It is therefore recommended to take liquid diet rather than solid diet.
Strictly avoid alcohol intake, carbonated drinks (soft drinks), smoking and gutka/pan chewing for at least one month from the day of treatment.
Take the medication properly for the entire duration as prescribed/suggested by your dentist.
Visit the clinic again after 7-10 days for review/suture removal.

Care after tooth Removal (Tooth Extraction)