Extraction Advice

What happens after I have my tooth out?

Once a tooth has been taken out, The following instructions must be followed:

Immediately after tooth extraction

• Do not rinse your mouth
• Keep biting on the gauze for at least 20 minutes
• Do not eat or drink anything until the anaesthetic wears off (except medication).
• You may require painkillers. Take these before the anaesthetic wears off.

Rest of the day

• Don’t spit out
• Avoid eating solid foods
• Avoid hot drinks
• Don’t smoke
• Don’t drink
• No vigorous exercise

After 24 hours

• Rinse your mouth out with warm salt water 2-3 times a day.
• Avoid eating on the same side as your extraction
• Mouthwash can help
• Be gentle when you’re brushing in that area.

What if I feel a lot pain after having the tooth removed?

The 2 most common reasons why you experience pain and swelling following a tooth extraction is because of an infection or a dry socket. A dry socket is when the underlying bone in the socket becomes exposed and inflamed due to loss of the blood clot. It is very important not to keep irritating the gum after a tooth has been taken out.

See your dentist immediately.

What about the gap that I’m left with?

You can have the gap replaced with either a bridge, denture or an implant. You may need to allow the socket to heal for about 3 months before a permanent fixture is placed. This is to allow the underlying bone to heal and settle. Bone continuously breaks down and remodels after an extraction and can take 3-6 months to fully settle. Otherwise, the replacement tooth won’t sit properly and won’t look as nice.

Do I need to put up with a gap for 3 months?

No. There is an option of immediate dentures or bridges. These are fitted as soon the tooth is taken out. But may need to be replaced in the future as the underlying bone settles down. Discuss this with the dentist.