10 things for Post-care Tooth Extraction

1. Take painkillers as prescribed.

2. Apply an ice bag to the affected area immediately after the procedure to keep

down swelling. Apply ice for 10 minutes at a time.

3. Relax for at least 24 hours after the extraction.

4. Avoid rinsing or spitting forcefully for 24 hours after the extraction.

5. After 24 hours, rinse with your mouth with a solution made of 1/2 teaspoon

salt and 8 ounces of warm water.

6. Do not smoke, which can inhibit healing.

7. Do not drink from a straw for the first 24 hours.

8. Eat soft foods till the day after extraction: soup, pudding, yogurt. Gradually

add solid foods to your diet as the extraction site heals.

9. When lying down, prop your head with pillows. Lying flat may prolong

bleeding.

10. Continue to brush and floss your teeth, and brush your tongue. Make sure to

avoid extraction site.