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Post-Extraction Instructions

Just had a tooth pulled? Follow these simple guidelines to heal properly and avoid complications. Call us at our Overland Park or Olathe office with any concerns.

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Medically reviewed by Nick Natanov, DDS, MBA · June 2026

What should you do after a tooth extraction?

Follow these steps to heal comfortably and protect the extraction site.

Bite on Gauze

Keep firm pressure on the gauze for 30 to 45 minutes. Replace it if needed. Some bleeding is normal for the first few hours.

Ice for Swelling

Apply ice packs to the outside of your face for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off during the first 24 hours.

No Straws or Smoking

Avoid straws, smoking, and spitting for 48 hours. Suction can dislodge the blood clot and cause dry socket.

Eat Soft Foods

Stick to soft foods for the first few days, like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes. Avoid chewing on the extraction side.

Take Medication as Directed

Take any prescribed medication as directed. Over the counter ibuprofen can help manage discomfort.

Gentle Oral Hygiene

Brush carefully and avoid the extraction site for the first 24 hours. After that, rinse gently with warm salt water.

Rest and Limit Activity

Rest for the remainder of the day. Avoid strenuous activity for 24 to 48 hours, which can increase bleeding and swelling.

Watch for Dry Socket

Worsening pain after day 3 may be a sign of dry socket. Call us right away if this happens.

Learn more about tooth extractionsView →

What does tooth extraction recovery look like day by day?

Healing happens in stages. Here is a general guide to what most people can expect.

Day 1
Bite on gauze to control bleeding and rest with your head elevated. Use ice on and off, and protect the clot: no rinsing, spitting, straws, or smoking.
Days 2 to 3
Swelling and soreness usually peak. Begin gentle warm salt water rinses, keep eating soft foods, and take pain relief as directed.
Days 3 to 7
Discomfort fades and you can ease back toward your normal diet. The gum tissue starts closing over the socket.
Week 2 and beyond
The socket keeps healing and the bone fills in over the following weeks. Keep the area clean with normal brushing and rinsing.

What is normal, and when should you call us?

This is normal

  • Light bleeding or oozing for the first several hours
  • Swelling and soreness that peak around day 2 to 3
  • Mild bruising on the cheek or jaw
  • Tenderness that slowly improves each day

Call us right away if

  • Heavy bleeding that does not slow after 30 to 45 minutes of firm gauze pressure
  • Pain that gets worse after day 3, often with a bad taste or odor (possible dry socket)
  • Swelling that increases after day 3, or a fever
  • Numbness that does not go away, or trouble swallowing or breathing

Call (913) 948-9488 (Overland Park) or (913) 247-1315 (Olathe).

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?+
Most people feel back to normal within a few days. The gum closes over the socket in about one to two weeks, and the bone underneath keeps healing for several weeks.
When can I eat normally after a tooth extraction?+
Stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side for the first few days. You can usually return to your normal diet once chewing feels comfortable, often within a few days to a week.
How do I know if I have dry socket?+
Dry socket usually appears as pain that worsens around day 3, often with a bad taste or odor. If your pain is increasing instead of improving, call us so we can help.
When can I brush my teeth after an extraction?+
Keep brushing your other teeth right away, but avoid the extraction site for the first 24 hours. After that, brush gently nearby and rinse with warm salt water.
Is bleeding normal after a tooth extraction?+
Yes. Light bleeding or oozing is normal for the first several hours. Bite on gauze with firm, steady pressure. If heavy bleeding continues after a few hours, call us.

Our sources

The guidance on this page reflects recommendations from leading dental and medical organizations.

American Dental AssociationMouthHealthy patient guide to tooth extractionsVisit →MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of MedicineAftercare guidance and dry socket preventionVisit →

This page is for general education and is not a substitute for professional dental care.

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