After a tooth extraction: what to do in the first 24 hours and the next days
Simple aftercare that prevents bleeding and dry socket: the gauze, food, brushing, smoking, pain relief, and the warning signs that need a call to the clinic.
1 min read · 5 November 2026
A tooth extraction heals well when the blood clot in the socket stays in place. Almost all aftercare rules exist to protect that clot.
The first hour
Bite firmly on the gauze for 30 to 45 minutes. If it is still oozing, place fresh gauze and bite again. A little pink saliva for a day is normal.
The first 24 hours
- Do not rinse, spit forcefully or drink through a straw.
- Do not smoke, vape or use shisha — it is the main cause of dry socket (see vaping and teeth).
- Hold a cold pack on the cheek, 15 minutes on and 15 off.
- Eat soft, lukewarm food on the other side; avoid very hot drinks.
- Rest and keep your head slightly raised.
From the second day
- Rinse gently with warm salt water after meals.
- Brush your other teeth normally and be gentle near the socket.
- Take pain relief exactly as advised by your dentist or the label.
Call the clinic if
- bleeding is heavy and does not stop with gauze pressure;
- pain becomes much stronger on day 2–4 and spreads to the ear (typical of dry socket);
- swelling increases after day 3, or you have fever or a bad taste.
Swelling that spreads toward the eye or neck, or difficulty swallowing or breathing, needs a hospital emergency department immediately.
What next?
A missing back tooth can let neighbours tilt. Ask about options for a missing tooth; for wisdom teeth read wisdom tooth removal. Book at DR. ELAF in Erbil.
These articles are for general information and don’t replace advice from your dentist.
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