Getting a tooth pulled is never fun, but the way you handle the first 48 hours makes a huge difference in how quickly you get back to feeling normal. Whether it was a stubborn wisdom tooth or a damaged molar, your main goal is to protect the extraction site while it heals.
Here are five practical ways to stay comfortable and avoid a “dry socket” or infection:
1. Manage the Bleeding
When you leave the office, your dentist will have you bite down on a piece of gauze. Keep that pressure firm for at least 30 to 45 minutes. The pressure is what helps a blood clot form—think of it like a natural scab for your jaw. If you’re still seeing a lot of red after an hour, swap in a fresh piece of gauze or even a damp caffeinated tea bag (the tannins help blood vessels constrict).
2. Take the Swelling Down
It’s normal to look a little puffy for a day or two. To keep the swelling under control, use a cold compress or a bag of frozen veggies on your cheek. Stick to a rhythm of 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off. Just make sure to wrap the ice in a cloth so you don’t irritate your skin.
3. Hit Pause on Smoking and Alcohol
This is the most important rule for avoiding complications. Smoking (the physical suction and the nicotine) and alcohol both mess with your body’s ability to clot. If that clot gets dislodged or fails to form, you end up with a dry socket, which is significantly more painful than the extraction itself. Give it at least 72 hours before you even think about lighting up.
4. Stick to a “Soft” Menu
Your jaw is going to be sore, so don’t force it to work hard. Stock your fridge with:
- Greek yogurt or pudding
- Lukewarm soups (avoid piping hot liquids)
- Mashed potatoes
- Smoothies (but don’t use a straw! The suction can pull the clot out)
5. Keep a Clean (But Gentle) Mouth
You shouldn’t brush directly over the empty socket for the first day, but you still need to keep the rest of your mouth clean to keep bacteria levels low. Starting the day after surgery, mix about a half-teaspoon of salt into warm water and gently let it soak the area before letting it drool out into the sink. No aggressive spitting!
Following these steps will help you breeze through the recovery phase and get back to your regular routine much faster.
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