Your healing and comfort are our top priorities. Please follow these instructions closely after your tooth extraction to ensure a smooth recovery and reduce the risk of complications such as dry socket or infection.

1. Bleeding Control

• Bite firmly on the gauze pad placed over the extraction site for 30–45 minutes after your procedure.

• If bleeding continues, replace with a fresh gauze pad and bite down for another 30 minutes.

• Slight oozing is normal for the first 24 hours. If bleeding is heavy or doesn’t slow down, please contact us.

2. Swelling and Discomfort

• Some swelling is normal and may peak 24–48 hours after your extraction.

• Apply an ice pack (wrapped in a cloth) to the outside of your face in 20-minute intervals (20 min on, 20 min off) during the first 24 hours.

• Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed.

3. Eating and Drinking

• Stick to soft, cool foods for the first 24 hours (e.g., yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, applesauce).

• Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or hard foods for at least 2–3 days.

• Do not use a straw, spit forcefully, or rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours—this can dislodge the clot and cause dry socket.

4. Oral Hygiene

• Do not brush near the extraction site on the day of the procedure.

• After 24 hours, gently rinse with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 oz warm water) after meals and before bed.

• Resume brushing your other teeth normally, but avoid the extraction area for a few days.

5. Activity

• Rest and take it easy for the first 24 hours.

• Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 48 hours to prevent increased bleeding or swelling.

6. Smoking/Vaping Warning

• Do not smoke or vape for at least 72 hours. Smoking delays healing and greatly increases the risk of dry socket.

Watch for These Signs – Contact us if you experience:

• Severe or worsening pain 2–3 days after the procedure

• Heavy bleeding that doesn’t stop with pressure

• Swelling that worsens after 2–3 days

• Fever, chills, or signs of infection

• A bad taste or odor in your mouth

Office Hours (Mon–Fri, 7 AM–4 PM): Call or text: 949-333-3892

After-Hours/Emergency: Please contact Dr. Trieu directly

In case of Medical Emergency please call 911

We appreciate your trust in Preservation Dentistry. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any concerns—we’re here to support you every step of the way during your healing process.