Hearing that you need a tooth extracted can feel intimidating. Whether it’s due to decay, infection, crowding, or wisdom teeth, many patients worry about the recovery process. At MVP Dental in Farmington, UT, we understand these concerns and want you to feel confident and informed every step of the way.
The good news is that with the right care, recovery is usually smooth and straightforward. This guide will walk you through what to expect after a tooth extraction, how to care for your mouth, and when to call your dentist for help.
Immediately After Your Extraction
Once your tooth has been removed, your dentist will place gauze over the extraction site to help stop bleeding and encourage a clot to form. A blood clot is an important part of healing—it protects the bone and nerves underneath and serves as the foundation for new tissue to grow.
In the first 24 hours, you can expect:
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Mild bleeding (usually stops after a few hours)
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Swelling around the extraction site
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Numbness from local anesthesia, which will wear off in a few hours
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Mild to moderate discomfort, manageable with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief
Dos and Don’ts for the First 24 Hours
To encourage healing and prevent complications, follow these important steps:
✅ Do:
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Bite down gently on gauze pads to control bleeding.
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Rest and avoid strenuous activity.
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Apply an ice pack (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) to reduce swelling.
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Take prescribed medications as directed.
❌ Don’t:
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Rinse your mouth vigorously (this can dislodge the blood clot).
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Use a straw—suction can lead to dry socket.
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Smoke or use tobacco products.
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Drink alcohol, which can slow healing.
Eating and Drinking After Extraction
Your diet plays a big role in your recovery. Stick to soft foods for the first few days, such as:
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Yogurt
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Applesauce
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Mashed potatoes
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Smoothies (without a straw)
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Scrambled eggs
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Soup (lukewarm, not hot)
Avoid crunchy, sticky, or spicy foods that can irritate the site. Gradually return to normal eating as you feel comfortable.
Oral Hygiene During Recovery
Good hygiene prevents infection, but you’ll need to be gentle around the extraction site.
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Day 1: Avoid brushing directly on the extraction area.
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Day 2 and onward: Brush gently around the site and continue brushing/flossing other teeth as normal.
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Saltwater rinses: After 24 hours, gently rinse with warm salt water (½ teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of water) 2–3 times per day.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
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1–2 weeks: Most patients feel back to normal.
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3–4 weeks: Soft tissue heals completely.
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A few months: The bone around the site fully heals.
If you had a surgical extraction (such as impacted wisdom teeth), recovery may take a little longer.
Watch Out for Complications
Most extractions heal smoothly, but be alert for signs of problems:
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Severe pain that worsens after 2–3 days (possible dry socket)
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Persistent bleeding after 24 hours
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Swelling that worsens instead of improving
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Fever or chills (sign of infection)
If you notice any of these, call MVP Dental right away.
Life After Extraction: What’s Next?
Depending on the reason for extraction, you may need to consider tooth replacement options. Missing teeth can cause shifting, bone loss, and bite changes over time. At MVP Dental, we offer:
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Dental implants for a permanent solution
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Bridges to restore function and appearance
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Partial dentures as a removable option
Our team will work with you to create a personalized plan that restores your smile’s function and beauty.
Takeaway: Healing Is Simple with the Right Care
Tooth extractions may sound intimidating, but recovery is usually smooth with the right steps. By following your dentist’s instructions and caring for the extraction site, you’ll be back to normal before you know it.
At MVP Dental in Farmington, UT, our team is here to make the process as comfortable as possible—from the procedure itself to a successful recovery.
✅ Need a tooth extraction or have questions about recovery? Contact MVP Dental today to schedule a consultation and let us guide you every step of the way.