Getting a tooth extracted or having wisdom teeth removed is a common dental procedure, but what happens after you leave the chair is just as important as the surgery itself. Proper aftercare is the key to a smooth, quick recovery and avoiding complications like dry socket or infection.

At Pearl Dental, we want you to feel confident and comfortable during your healing process. Whether you’ve just had a simple extraction or a more complex wisdom tooth removal, following these at-home care instructions will help you get back to your normal routine as quickly as possible.

Why Proper Aftercare Matters

The mouth is a sensitive area that heals rapidly, but it needs the right environment to do so. After an extraction, a blood clot forms in the socket where the tooth used to be. This clot is crucial—it acts like a bandage, protecting the exposed bone and nerves underneath while new tissue grows. Dislodging this clot can lead to a painful condition known as dry socket. By adhering to the following guidelines, you protect this healing process and ensure the best possible outcome.

Immediate Postoperative Care

The first 48 hours are critical for your recovery. During this time, your body is starting the healing process, and minimizing irritation to the surgical site is essential.

Key Restrictions to Remember:

• No Tobacco: Do not smoke or use smokeless tobacco for at least 48 hours. The suction from smoking and the chemicals in tobacco can severely delay healing.
• No Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol for at least 48 hours, as it can thin your blood and interfere with medication.
• Avoid Suction: Do not spit forcefully, rinse vigorously, swish liquids, or suck through a straw for at least 24 hours. The suction motion is the number one cause of dislodging the blood clot.

Caring for the Operative Site

Managing the extraction site properly helps control bleeding and swelling.

• Controlling Bleeding: You will likely be given gauze to bite on. Keep steady pressure on this gauze for 30 minutes as instructed by your doctor. If bleeding persists, replace the gauze and continue applying consistent pressure. It is far better to apply steady pressure than to change the gauze every few minutes, which can disturb the clot.
• Managing Oozing: Slight bleeding or oozing is normal for the first day or two. We recommend placing an old towel or pillowcase on your pillow when you sleep to prevent staining.
• Reducing Swelling: On the day of surgery, you can apply ice packs to the side of your face near the extraction site. Use the “20 minutes on, 20 minutes off” rule to help minimize swelling. Swelling typically peaks within 48 to 72 hours and will slowly subside after that.

Activity and Rest

Rest is a vital component of healing. Your body needs energy to repair the tissue, so take it easy.

• Go Straight Home: After your surgery, go directly home. Avoid taking stairs by yourself if you feel unsteady.
• Physical Limits: Do not engage in sports, aerobics, or heavy lifting for at least 3 days. Elevated blood pressure from exercise can cause the extraction site to bleed.
• Protect the Clot: As mentioned before, avoid any action that creates suction in the mouth (spitting, using straws) for at least 24 hours.

Managing Medications

Your doctor may prescribe medications to manage pain and prevent infection. It is crucial to follow these instructions carefully.

• Antibiotics: If antibiotics are prescribed, take them to completion, even if you feel better. Stopping early can lead to antibiotic resistance or a return of infection.
• Pain Medication: Use caution with prescribed pain relievers. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking them, as they can cause drowsiness and slower reaction times.
• Mouth Rinse: If a specific mouth rinse is prescribed, use it as directed, but usually, you should wait until 24 hours after surgery to begin gentle rinsing.

Diet Recommendations: What to Eat

Nutrition plays a big role in healing, but you must be gentle with your mouth.

The First 24-48 Hours:
Stick to a soft diet. This minimizes chewing and reduces the risk of food getting stuck in the extraction site. Good options include:

• Pastas and mashed potatoes
• Warm (not hot) soup
• Scrambled eggs
• Yogurt and pudding
• Milkshakes and seedless smoothies (remember: no straws!)

What to Avoid for the First Week:
Stay away from foods that are crunchy, spicy, or contain small bits that can lodge in the wound.

• No: Straws, popcorn, chips, nuts, and fruits with small seeds (like strawberries).
• No: Acidic foods like oranges or tomato sauces, and carbonated drinks, as these can irritate the tissue.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, but stick to water and non-acidic juices.

When to Call the Doctor

While some discomfort is normal, certain symptoms require immediate attention. Contact Pearl Dental right away if you experience:

• A temperature greater than 101.5°F.
• Increasing pain or pain that does not improve with medication.
• Bleeding or swelling that exceeds what your doctor told you to expect.

We Are Here for You

Recovery takes time, but by following these instructions, you are setting yourself up for a healthy healing process. If you have any questions about your recovery or are unsure about a symptom, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. At Pearl Dental, your health and comfort are our top priorities.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your dental professional.