Having a tooth extracted can feel like a big step—and it's natural to wonder what comes next. Will it hurt? How long will recovery take? What should you do—and avoid—to heal properly? The good news: most extractions heal smoothly when you follow a few simple guidelines. Here's what to expect in the first 24 hours and beyond, so you can approach your recovery with confidence.
The First 24 Hours
Right after the procedure, you'll have gauze in place to control bleeding. Your dentist will give you specific instructions, but in general:
- Bite down gently on the gauze for 30–45 minutes to help a clot form. Replace it if bleeding continues; some oozing is normal for the first few hours.
- Rest — Avoid strenuous activity, bending over, or lifting. These can increase blood pressure and disrupt the clot.
- Ice — Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek for 15–20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.
- Elevate your head when lying down to minimize swelling.
- Eat soft foods — Stick to cool or room-temperature foods. Avoid hot liquids, which can dissolve the clot.
- Don't rinse, spit, or use a straw — Suction can dislodge the clot and cause a painful condition called dry socket.
Managing Discomfort
Some discomfort is normal. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe something stronger if needed. Take medication as directed—and don't wait until pain is severe to take it. Staying ahead of the pain is easier than catching up. If pain increases after a few days instead of improving, or if it becomes severe, contact your dentist. That could indicate dry socket or another issue that needs attention.
The First Few Days
Swelling often peaks around day 2–3, then gradually improves. Bruising can occur and is normal. Continue with soft foods—yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, smoothies—and avoid the extraction site when chewing. After 24 hours, you can gently rinse with warm salt water (about 1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of water) to keep the area clean. Be gentle—no vigorous swishing.
What to Avoid
- Smoking — Delays healing and increases the risk of dry socket and infection.
- Alcohol — Can interfere with healing and with any prescribed medications.
- Hard, crunchy, or sticky foods — Can irritate the site or dislodge the clot.
- Touching the site — Don't poke with your tongue or fingers. Let it heal.
When to Call Your Dentist
Contact your dentist if you experience:
- Bleeding that doesn't slow after applying pressure for 20–30 minutes
- Severe or worsening pain after a few days (possible dry socket)
- Signs of infection: fever, increasing swelling, pus, or foul taste
- Numbness that persists beyond the expected duration of local anesthesia
- Any concerns that don't feel right
Healing Timeline
The initial healing—clot formation and soft tissue closure—typically takes 1–2 weeks. Bone and gum tissue continue to remodel for several months. If you're planning a dental implant to replace the tooth, we'll typically wait for the site to heal fully before placement. Your dentist will advise you on the right timeline for your situation.
The Bottom Line
Most people recover from extractions without complications. Follow your dentist's instructions, take it easy for a day or two, and don't hesitate to call if something doesn't feel right. A little care now goes a long way toward a smooth, comfortable recovery.