Tooth Extraction Aftercare

After a tooth extraction, a blood clot forms in the socket and supports healing. Your surgeon’s personalised instructions take priority, especially if the procedure was complex or you have a medical condition.

The first day

Bite on the gauze as directed. Mild oozing can occur, but persistent heavy bleeding needs professional advice. Avoid forceful rinsing, spitting, smoking, vaping, alcohol and drinking through a straw, as these actions may disturb the clot.

Choose cool or lukewarm soft foods and chew away from the area. Avoid very hot, hard, sharp or spicy foods until comfortable. Take prescribed or recommended medicines exactly as directed. Do not take someone else’s antibiotics.

Cleaning the mouth

Continue cleaning the other teeth gently. Your clinician will advise when and how to clean near the socket and whether salt-water rinses or another rinse should be used. Do not probe the socket with fingers or objects.

Swelling and activity

Some swelling and stiffness can be expected, especially after surgical removal. Follow the clinic’s advice about cold packs and physical activity. Recovery varies with the tooth, procedure and individual health.

When to contact the clinic

Call for bleeding that does not settle with pressure, worsening swelling, fever, rash, persistent vomiting, increasing numbness, bad taste with discharge or severe pain that worsens after initial improvement. Difficulty breathing or swallowing is an emergency.