Whether you’re recovering from a simple extraction or dealing with a tooth with braces, proper aftercare is key to avoiding complications and promoting smooth healing. Much like a skincare routine protects and heals your skin, your post-extraction routine supports your oral health and comfort. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step aftercare “routine” to help you feel confident and well-prepared during recovery.

Right after your tooth extraction, your mouth is in a sensitive and vulnerable state. To prevent infections and bleeding, follow these immediate steps:

• Do bite down on gauze: This helps stop bleeding. Keep it in place for 30–45 minutes.

• Do apply an ice pack: For the first few hours, apply an ice pack on the outside of your cheek for 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off.

• Do rest: Avoid strenuous activity to give your body the energy it needs to heal.

• Do keep your head elevated: This reduces swelling and supports proper blood flow.

Transitioning into day two, it’s crucial to begin modifying your habits to promote long-term recovery.

Avoiding the wrong moves can be just as important as doing the right things. Here’s what to steer clear of:

• Don’t use a straw: Suction can dislodge the blood clot, leading to painful dry socket.

• Don’t smoke: It delays healing and increases the risk of infection.

• Don’t touch the area with your tongue or fingers: Just like touching a healing blemish can cause irritation, disturbing the socket can invite bacteria.

• Don’t eat hot or spicy food: These can irritate the extraction site and slow the healing process.

Just as your skin needs vitamins for glow and repair, your gums need nutrients to regenerate tissue and stay infection-free.

• Do eat soft foods: Opt for yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, or oatmeal.

• Do stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, but avoid carbonated or caffeinated drinks.

• Do choose anti-inflammatory foods: Think bananas, applesauce, and lukewarm broths.

Remember: Your diet directly impacts how well your mouth heals, especially if you’re dealing with a tooth with braces nearby.

Keeping your mouth clean is essential, but overdoing it can harm more than help.

• Do rinse gently with salt water: Start 24 hours after extraction and do it a few times daily.

• Do brush your teeth, but avoid the socket: Be gentle and skip mouthwash unless your dentist approves.

• Do monitor for signs of infection: Redness, pus, and increasing pain should never be ignored.

Much like maintaining clear skin requires consistency, your aftercare should stay steady even after the pain fades.

• Do continue soft foods for at least 4–7 days

• Do avoid the extraction site while brushing

• Do follow up with your dentist, especially if you had a tooth with braces extracted

Healing from an extraction with braces can take longer and may need extra attention, as wires and brackets can complicate the healing process.

Q: How long should I wait before eating solid foods again?
A: It’s best to wait at least 4–7 days. Start with soft foods and gradually return to solids as the site heals.

Q: Can I brush my teeth normally after an extraction?
A: Yes, but be gentle and avoid the extraction site for a few days.

Q: What if I had a tooth with braces removed?
A: If the extracted tooth had braces, ensure that your orthodontist and dentist coordinate post-care. You may need adjustments to your braces afterward.

Q: What is a dry socket, and how do I avoid it?
A: A dry socket happens when the blood clot is dislodged. Avoid using straws, smoking, or vigorous rinsing to prevent it.