Instructions Following Dental Extractions and Exposure of Teeth

After your tooth is extracted it is important for a blood clot to form in order to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. You will be asked to bite on a gauze pad for 30 – 45 minutes after your extraction. If the bleeding or oozing persists, change the gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. This may need to be done several times to stop the bleeding.

You may experience some pain and swelling. Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling, and take your pain medications as prescribed. Swelling normally diminishes after 48 hours. If you're prescribed antibiotics, continue to take them for the instructed length of time, even when signs of symptoms and infections are gone.