Aftercare
Tooth extraction aftercare
Extractions and wisdom teeth heal predictably when the clot is protected. Here is the first week hour by hour, and how to avoid a dry socket.
Key takeaways
- • Do not rinse, spit or smoke for 24 hours.
- • Dry socket pain usually starts on day three to four.
- • The socket closes over in two to three weeks.
What to expect, step by step
First 24 hours
Protect the clot
Firm gauze pressure for the first hour, no rinsing, no straws, no smoking, no hot drinks. Cold soft food and rest.
Day 2 to 4
Salt-water rinses
Rinse gently with warm salt water after meals. Swelling peaks and then eases; this is also the window when dry socket appears if the clot is lost.
Week 1 to 3
Gum closes over
Food may collect in the socket for a while; rinse it out rather than poking. Normal eating usually returns within a week.
Do this
- Take painkillers before the anaesthetic wears off.
- Keep your head raised and rest on the first day.
Avoid this
- No smoking or vaping for at least 72 hours.
- No straws, no vigorous rinsing on day one.
Contact us straight away if
- Throbbing pain radiating to the ear on day three or four.
- Bleeding that restarts and will not settle.
- Fever or difficulty opening your mouth.
Once you are back home
Message the clinic on WhatsApp with a photo. We answer in English and Albanian, and we will tell you whether it can wait until your next visit or needs a local dentist the same day.