The first night following a tooth extraction is an important step in your oral health recovery. While it’s normal to experience some discomfort, proper care can enhance your comfort and help the healing process.
Our team at Sunshine Dental is always ready to offer practical tips to help you navigate the first night after your extraction and wake up on the road to recovery.
Protect the Extraction Site
After your surgery, we will give you gauze to bite down on to help control bleeding. You can remove the gauze after 15-30 minutes, but if bleeding persists, replace it with a fresh piece and contact us.
Avoid rinsing or spitting vigorously for the first 24 hours after oral surgery to help protect the area and let a blood clot form with-in the extraction socket. This blood clot acts like a natural bandage that helps your mouth heal.
Managing Discomfort
Your dentist may prescribe pain medication to help manage your discomfort. Be sure to follow their instructions carefully. You can also consider taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, which can also help with soreness.
To help reduce swelling and numb the area, you can apply an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth to your cheek every 1 to 2 hours over the next 3 days. Apply it for about 20 minutes at a time and repeat the process as needed.
Nutrition & Hydration
Nourishing your body properly can help your body heal faster. Focus on soft foods that are gentle on your mouth, such as yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, or soup.
It’s also important to stay hydrated, so drink plenty of water and other clear liquids. Avoid using a straw for the first 24–48 hours after your extraction, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot and cause the extraction site to bleed.
Rest & Recovery
Aim for a good night’s sleep to help your body recover. To reduce swelling overnight, sleep with your head elevated on a couple of pillows.
It’s strongly recommended to avoid smoking for at least 72 hours (3 days) after a tooth extraction, or, ideally, only after the site is completely healed. Smoking can increase your risk of developing dry socket, which can delay healing.
The Next 24 Hours
After the first day has passed, you should continue taking care of the extraction site. Here are some additional tips:
- Once the initial 24 hours have passed, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day to help keep the extraction site clean and reduce inflammation. To make a saltwater rinse, dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.
- Brush your teeth as usual but be extra gentle around the extraction site and avoid brushing directly on the area for the first few days.
- Avoid intense physical exertion for the first few days, as it can increase blood flow and cause more swelling.
When to Return to Work or School
Most people can return to work or school after 1 or 2 days, but everyone heals at their own pace, so listen to your body.
If you’re still experiencing significant discomfort or if your face is still swollen, it might be best to wait until these symptoms subside before returning to work or school.
If your job involves physical labour or if you’re a student with a heavy course load, you may need additional time to recover.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While most people heal from a tooth extraction without complications, it’s essential to watch for any unusual symptoms.
Call us as soon as possible if you experience:
- Pain that doesn’t improve with medication
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop after 1–2 hours
- A bad taste or odour in your mouth
- Swelling that worsens
Your Path to Recovery After Tooth Extraction
By following these tips, you can be well on your way to recovery. Remember, if you experience any concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact us at Sunshine Dental.
With patience and care, you can be back to your normal routine in no time.
