Managing Bleeding

After your extraction, a blood clot will form in the socket. This will help stop bleeding and aid the healing process, so it’s important to help it form and remain in place. You’ll be given a gauze pad to bite on for 30-45 minutes after your appointment. If you still have bleeding after this period, bite on a clean gauze pad for another 30 minutes. Continue doing this until bleeding stops.

Managing Pain and Swelling

You can expect some pain and swelling after your extraction. Make sure to use a protected ice pack or bag of frozen vegetables on the area for 20 minutes at a time. You can also take your prescribed painkillers exactly as directed. Swelling should subside within 2-3 days – make sure to contact us if it persists or increases.

What to Avoid

It’s important not to dislodge or disturb the blood clot as your mouth begins healing. Make sure to avoid for the next 72 hours:

• Rinsing
• Drinking with straws
• Smoking
• Drinking alcohol
• Brushing your teeth

Also avoid exercising for the first 24 hours. Elevating your blood pressure can cause more bleeding, so focus on resting in the meantime.

What to Eat

It’s important to avoid hot foods or drinks for the first 6 hours after surgery. Make sure to stick to soft foods for the first few days after surgery (this does not need to be a liquid diet). Some nutritious and filling foods include:

• Cottage cheese and yogurt
• Tuna, salmon, and eggs
• Vegetable and fruit juice
• Soup
• Oatmeal

Contact Us

If you have any questions about extraction aftercare or experience any serious symptoms, make sure and get in touch. You can reach us by calling (415) 523-9178 or filling out our online contact form.