The first week after a tooth extraction sets the tone for how smoothly you heal. A short list of clear dos and don'ts covers almost everything you need to know to protect the extraction site and avoid unnecessary complications.
Bite gently on the gauze provided for 30 to 45 minutes after the procedure to help a clot form, and avoid disturbing the area with your tongue or fingers. This clot is the foundation of healing for the first several days.
Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek in short intervals during the first 24 hours to limit swelling, and take any prescribed or recommended pain relief as directed, ideally before numbness from the anesthesia fully wears off.
All three create suction or disturbance that can dislodge the healing clot and lead to dry socket. Wait at least three to five days, and ideally longer for smoking, before resuming any of these habits.
If your dentist prescribes antibiotics or schedules a follow-up visit, especially after a surgical extraction, complete the full course and attend the follow-up even if you feel fine. This confirms healing is on track and catches any issues early.
You can gently brush your other teeth the same day, avoiding the extraction site directly. Most dentists advise gently rinsing that specific area rather than brushing it for the first few days.
Light activity is usually fine after a day or two, but strenuous exercise should wait about a week, since raising your blood pressure too soon can increase bleeding risk at the extraction site.
Bleeding that does not slow after a few hours, worsening pain after day three instead of improving, fever, or visible pus are all reasons to contact your clinic promptly rather than waiting.
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