These instructions apply at every Emergency Dental location. Follow them closely for the first week to heal well and avoid complications like dry socket.
Video coming soon
First 24 hours
Bite firmly on the gauze we gave you for 30–45 minutes, replacing it if it soaks through
Don't rinse, spit forcefully, smoke, or use a straw. These can dislodge the blood clot and cause dry socket
Apply an ice pack to the outside of your face, 15 minutes on / 15 minutes off
Stick to soft, cool foods like smoothies, yogurt, and mashed potatoes, and stay hydrated
Take pain relievers as directed, and rest with your head elevated
Some oozing and light bleeding is normal today
Day 2–3
Swelling and soreness typically peak now, then start improving
Begin gentle warm salt water rinses after meals (¼ tsp salt in a cup of warm water)
Continue a soft diet and avoid crunchy, spicy, or seedy foods that can irritate the site
Brush your other teeth normally, but avoid the extraction site directly
Day 4–7
Swelling should be mostly gone and discomfort should be minimal
Gradually reintroduce normal foods as comfort allows
If you have stitches, they typically dissolve on their own within a week or two
The socket will continue filling in with new tissue over the following weeks
Call your location if you notice:
Bleeding that won't slow down after 24 hours
Severe pain that worsens rather than improves after day 2–3 (a possible sign of dry socket)
Fever, pus, or a persistent bad taste or odor
Numbness in your lip, chin, or tongue that lasts longer than expected
Something doesn't feel right?
Reach out to the location that treated you, or walk into any Emergency Dental office.