Tips for Optimal Healing
To accelerate the healing process after a tooth extraction, Centre Dentaire Laflamme has developed this guide of recommendations. Please note that it is completely normal to experience some discomfort and have swelling in the lower part of your face after the procedure.
The First few Hours after Extraction
Bleeding Control:
- Maintain firm pressure by biting on the provided gauze pads for 1 to 2 hours
- Replace the pads every 30 minutes if necessary
- If bleeding persists, bite on a slightly moistened tea bag or a clean gauze pad for 20 minutes
- Slight reddish discoloration of saliva is normal during the first 24 hours
Position and Activity:
- Keep your head in an upright position, even while resting
- Avoid lying flat
- Limit physical activities on the day of the extraction
- Rest as much as possible
Things to Absolutely Avoid
To preserve the blood clot that forms in the socket (extraction site) and is essential for healing:
- Do not rinse your mouth or spit for the first 24 hours
- Do not use a straw for drinking (suction can dislodge the clot)
- Do not smoke and avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours (ideally longer)
- Avoid touching the extraction site with your tongue or fingers
- Do not consume foods that are too hot, spicy, or difficult to chew
- Avoid intense exercise for the first 2-3 days
Pain and Discomfort Management
- Take pain medication as prescribed by Dr. Laflamme
- If no specific medication has been prescribed, acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) may be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions
- Avoid aspirin, which can increase bleeding
- Apply ice to your cheek at 20-minute intervals (20 minutes with ice, 20 minutes without) for the first 24 hours
If antibiotics have been prescribed, take them until the end of the course, even if symptoms disappear earlier.
Starting the Next Day
Oral Hygiene:
- Begin gently rinsing your mouth three times a day with a warm salt water solution (½ teaspoon of salt in one cup of water) if no mouthwash has been prescribed
- Resume normal tooth brushing, carefully avoiding the extraction area for the first 3 days
- After 3 days, gently clean the area with an ultra-soft brush
Recommended Diet:
- Day of extraction: cold or lukewarm liquids and very soft foods (yogurt, ice cream, purée)
- Second day: progress to soft foods (scrambled eggs, well-cooked pasta, fish)
- Following days: gradually reintroduce a normal diet as comfort allows
- Avoid hard foods (nuts, chips, candies) and foods that can leave particles (seeds, popcorn) for at least one week
Normal Symptoms after an Extraction
- Slight sensitivity in the area for a few days
- Moderate swelling that peaks 48-72 hours after extraction
- Possible difficulty opening your mouth completely for 3-5 days
- Bruising that may appear on the skin and disappear within 5-7 days
- Slight increase in salivation
Signs of Complications – when to Contact Us
Immediately contact Centre Dentaire Laflamme at 450-447-4055 if you observe:
- Heavy bleeding that persists despite pressure
- Intense pain that worsens after 2-3 days (possible dry socket)
- Swelling that increases after the third day
- Fever above 38°C (100.4°F)
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Prolonged numbness beyond the normal anesthesia period
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Allergic reaction to prescribed medications
Complete healing of the extraction site generally takes 1 to 2 weeks on the surface, but bone remodeling continues for several months. Carefully follow these recommendations to promote optimal healing and minimize the risk of complications.
For any questions regarding your recovery, do not hesitate to contact us. Your comfort and health are our priority.