Having a tooth extracted may sound intimidating, but with the right care afterward, your healing process can be smooth and worry-free. At Berrey Family Dentistry in Kendall, FL, we guide our patients through every step—from the moment the procedure ends to full recovery.
Knowing what to do—and what not to do—after your tooth extraction can help prevent complications like dry socket, infection, or prolonged discomfort. Here’s what you need to know to take care of your mouth after an extraction.
Immediately after the procedure, we’ll place a piece of gauze over the extraction site to help stop the bleeding and form a blood clot. Gently bite down on it and keep it in place for at least 30–45 minutes. If bleeding continues, you can replace it with a clean piece and apply light pressure again.
Your body needs energy to heal. Avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting for the rest of the day, and ideally for at least 24 hours. Give yourself permission to relax—you’ve earned it.
To minimize swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 15 minutes at a time (with 15-minute breaks in between) during the first 6–8 hours after surgery. This helps reduce inflammation and discomfort.
For the first day or two, choose soft, cool foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, soup (not too hot), smoothies, or scrambled eggs. Avoid chewing near the extraction site and take small bites to prevent irritation.
If your dentist provides antibiotics or pain relievers, take them exactly as instructed. Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen can help with swelling and discomfort, but check with us before taking anything new.
Suction from straws or spitting can dislodge the blood clot and cause a painful condition known as dry socket. Avoid drinking through straws and try not to spit, especially during the first 24 hours.
Smoking slows down healing, restricts blood flow, and greatly increases your risk of dry socket. If possible, take this time as an opportunity to pause or quit altogether. Even vaping should be avoided during recovery.
Hot temperatures can irritate the healing site, while spicy and crunchy foods may cause injury or get lodged in the area. Stick to a bland, soft diet until we let you know it’s safe to return to your regular eating habits.
Continue brushing and flossing the rest of your mouth, but avoid the extraction area for the first 24 hours. After that, you can gently rinse with a saltwater solution (1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 oz. of warm water) to keep the area clean without disturbing healing tissue.
Most patients start feeling much better after 2–3 days. The full healing process may take one to two weeks depending on the complexity of the extraction. If stitches were used, we’ll let you know if they’ll dissolve on their own or if a follow-up visit is needed for removal.
If you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain after a few days, or signs of infection like swelling, fever, or foul odor, contact our Kendall, FL office immediately.
At Berrey Family Dentistry, we know that dental extractions can feel like a big step—but we’re here to make the process as easy and supportive as possible. From the moment you walk in for treatment to the day you’re fully healed, our team is here for you with clear instructions, gentle care, and honest guidance.
Have concerns about your recovery? Want to schedule a follow-up or ask about future tooth replacement options like implants or bridges?
Schedule your dental consultation with our dentists in Miami, FL – Call us at (954) 504-2094
