After Tooth Extraction

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Tooth Extraction Aftercare in Boca Raton & Delray Beach

Proper care after a tooth extraction is essential for comfort, healing, and preventing complications such as dry socket or infection. At Boca Jaw Surgery, we provide clear post-extraction instructions to help our Boca Raton and Delray Beach patients heal quickly and safely.

Controlling Bleeding After Tooth Extraction

After your tooth extraction, a blood clot must form in the socket to stop bleeding and begin healing.

  • Bite firmly on the gauze pad for 30–45 minutes after your appointment.

  • If bleeding or oozing continues, replace the gauze and bite for another 30 minutes.

  • Repeat as needed during the first few hours. Mild bleeding is normal.

Protecting the Blood Clot (Preventing Dry Socket)

Protecting the blood clot is critical, especially during the first 72 hours after a tooth extraction.

Avoid:

  • Vigorous rinsing or spitting

  • Drinking through straws

  • Smoking or vaping

  • Alcohol use

  • Brushing directly next to the extraction site

These actions can dislodge the clot and lead to dry socket, a painful condition that delays healing.

Limit strenuous activity and exercise for the first 24 hours, as increased blood pressure may cause renewed bleeding.

Pain and Swelling After Tooth Extraction

Some pain and facial swelling are normal after tooth extraction.

  • Apply an ice pack or frozen compress to the outside of the face for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off during the first day.

  • Take prescribed or recommended pain medication as directed.

  • Swelling usually peaks within 48 hours and then improves.

If pain worsens instead of improving, contact our office.

Medications, Diet, and Healing

  • Take all medications exactly as prescribed.

  • If antibiotics are prescribed, finish the entire course, even if you feel better.

  • Drink plenty of fluids and eat soft, nutritious foods the day of surgery.

  • Resume normal foods as comfort allows.

Good nutrition helps speed healing after tooth extraction.

Oral Hygiene After Tooth Extraction

  • Resume gentle brushing and flossing 24 hours after surgery.

  • Keep the mouth clean, but avoid aggressive brushing at the extraction site.

  • Proper oral hygiene reduces infection risk and promotes faster healing.

Returning to Normal Activities

Most patients in Boca Raton and Delray Beach feel much better within a few days and can return to normal activities as comfort allows.

When to Call Your Oral Surgeon

Contact Boca Jaw Surgery immediately if you experience:

  • Heavy or uncontrolled bleeding

  • Severe or increasing pain

  • Swelling that does not improve after 2–3 days

  • Fever or a reaction to medications

📞 Boca Jaw Surgery – Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
📍Serving the South Florida tri-county area: Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade— including Boca Raton and Delray Beach.
☎️ 561-499-3331

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