Guide
After a tooth extraction: what to expect and how to heal
The first 24 hours matter most. Here is how to protect the socket, stay comfortable, and know when something isn't right.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Rodolfo Rodriguez, DMD · Updated
The first 24 hours
- Bite gently on the gauze for as long as we tell you, to help a clot form
- Don't rinse, spit forcefully or drink through a straw
- Don't smoke or vape
- Rest, and keep your head raised
- Hold a cold pack on your cheek, on and off, to limit swelling
Eating and drinking
- Stick to soft, cool foods for the first days
- Chew on the other side
- Avoid hot drinks, alcohol, and crunchy or spicy foods until the area feels better
- Drink plenty of water — but not through a straw
Keeping it clean
Brush your other teeth as usual from the first night, avoiding the socket. From the second day, rinse gently with warm salt water after meals, unless we've told you otherwise.
Pain and swelling
Soreness usually peaks in the first two or three days and then improves. Take pain relief as Dr. Rodriguez recommends. Some bruising can appear, especially after wisdom teeth.
When to call us
- Bleeding that doesn't slow with firm pressure on gauze
- Pain that gets worse after the third day — a sign of dry socket
- Swelling that increases after the third day, or a fever
- A bad taste or pus from the socket
- Numbness that hasn't worn off by the next day
If swelling makes it hard to breathe or swallow, go to the emergency room. On Friday evenings and weekends, Perla After Hours can see you by appointment.
FAQs
When can I eat normally?
When can I exercise?
What about replacing the tooth?
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