What to do after an extraction!
Once you have a tooth removed, please follow the steps below:
On the day of your extraction
- Bite firmly on the gauze we give you for 20–30 minutes to help a blood clot form. If it still bleeds, bite on a fresh piece of clean, damp gauze for another 20–30 minutes.
- Limit exercise and take it easy.
- Keep your head raised, including propping it up on an extra pillow at night, to reduce bleeding.
- For the first 24 hours, don't rinse your mouth, spit forcefully, or have hot drinks, as this can dislodge the clot.
- Until the anaesthetic wears off, avoid hot food and drinks, as you may accidentally burn yourself while still numb.
- Don't smoke for at least 48 hours — smoking greatly increases the risk of dry socket. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours.
From the next day
- Rinse gently with warm salt water (half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) several times a day, especially after meals.
- Continue to brush your teeth twice daily, being careful around the extraction area.
- Eat soft food and chew on the other side for a few days.
- You can take painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (if suitable for you), but avoid aspirin because it thins the blood and may cause more bleeding.
When to contact us
If your pain gets worse after a few days, rather than better, call us on 01922 624900. You may have dry socket (when the blood clot is lost from the socket, exposing bone — it is not an infection but can be very painful). Also contact us if bleeding won't stop, or if you have increasing swelling, a high temperature or a bad taste, which can be signs of infection.
What our patients say
Dentist and assistant arrived on time to treat my wife who sadly suffers from dementia and is unable to communicate to dentist fully.
(Sadly not seen Dentist for 5 years)
The service they gave was nothing short of wonderful. As patients partner, I was involved in the process of a 3 tooth removal process. Dentist explained the pr…Read full review
Dentist and assistant arrived on time to treat my wife who sadly suffers from dementia and is unable to communicate to dentist fully.
(Sadly not seen Dentist for 5 years)
The service they gave was nothing short of wonderful. As patients partner, I was involved in the process of a 3 tooth removal process. Dentist explained the process, the techniques, apparatus used, how the treatment was administered and all aspects of aftercare.
Both Dentist and assistant talked and encouraged wife in a calm and professional way, held her hand to calm her.
Dentist only proceeded when gum area was completely numb so extractions could proceed.
All 3 extractions proceeded in a calm and professional manner.
I can only say a big thank you to Dentist and assistant who really put myself at ease with the whole process.
Communication from their Birmingham centre was excellent, and, although I was in the Liverpool area for treatment, there were no communication glitches.
I can thoroughly recommend the homevisit way of providing dental services for the more vulnerable and mobility problems of patients.
I thank them very much.
Steve.
I had been suffering with pain for a few weeks from my wisdom tooth. But unable to get into my usual dental surgery for over a month.
Found an appointment for same day. And due to being anxious about dentist I was worried about going.
When I arrived the staff greeted me and eased my nerves.
During the consultant the dentist and …Read full review
I had been suffering with pain for a few weeks from my wisdom tooth. But unable to get into my usual dental surgery for over a month.
Found an appointment for same day. And due to being anxious about dentist I was worried about going.
When I arrived the staff greeted me and eased my nerves.
During the consultant the dentist and staff made me felt at ease. Went through each step and then went through treatment options. Needed to have the tooth removed. The nurse and dentist were amazing. Comforted me and also allowed to have my mum in the room with me. They went through the procedure with my and then my after care afterwards. I would definitely recommend to anywho is nervous about going to the dentist like me.
I've had several treatments at The Dentist, Implants, Veneers, Emergency Centre, including wisdom tooth extraction, crowns, and fillings, and I couldn't be more pleased with the care I've received. The team is professional, caring, and ensures every visit is as comfortable as possible. The dentist took great care to make sure I …
Read full review
I've had several treatments at The Dentist, Implants, Veneers, Emergency Centre, including wisdom tooth extraction, crowns, and fillings, and I couldn't be more pleased with the care I've received. The team is professional, caring, and ensures every visit is as comfortable as possible. The dentist took great care to make sure I felt at ease during each procedure, and the results have always been excellent. Whether it's routine dental work or something more complex, I highly recommend trying this place. They truly go above and beyond to provide exceptional service
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Send us a message
Tell us what you need and we'll get back to you. For urgent pain or swelling, please call 01922 624900.