Extraction Post-Op Instructions
Caring for Your Mouth After a Tooth Extraction
Following an extraction, proper care is essential for fast healing and to prevent complications. Please read these instructions carefully and follow them closely.
Important Things to Avoid
✔ No smoking – This delays healing and increases the risk of infection.
✔ No sipping through a straw – This can dislodge the blood clot.
✔ No carbonated beverages and no vigorous rinsing for the first few days.
✔ Avoid hot foods or drinks until the numbness completely wears off.
✔ Stick to soft foods for the first four days.
Above all, rest and allow your body to heal — you just had a part of your body removed, so give yourself time to recover.
What to Expect & How to Manage It
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Infection
If infection is present or suspected, Dr. Gierucki will prescribe antibiotics. Follow directions exactly. If you notice itching, hives, swelling, or any reaction, stop taking the medication and call our office immediately.
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Pain
Mild to moderate discomfort is common. Pain medication will be prescribed — take it as directed for best results.
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Swelling
Some swelling or bruising is normal. Apply an ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a thin towel to the outside of your face for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off during the first 24 hours. Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help, along with any prescriptions provided.
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Bleeding
Mild bleeding is normal for the first day. Bite firmly on the gauze provided for 30–45 minutes at a time, replacing with a damp piece if needed. If you have multiple extractions, you may need several pieces of gauze.
✔ Ensure the gauze is damp before placing to prevent sticking.
✔ A damp tea bag can also help, the tannic acid aids clotting.
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Dry Socket
A dry socket occurs if the blood clot is lost, leaving the bone exposed. This can cause significant pain and delay healing for weeks. It usually develops 3–4 days after extraction. Avoid smoking, straws, or vigorous rinsing to reduce your risk.
When to Call Our Office
Contact us immediately if you experience:
Severe or worsening pain
Persistent heavy bleeding
Signs of infection (fever, swelling, foul taste)
Allergic reactions to medication
Let’s talk
Root Canal Post-Op Instructions
Caring for Your Tooth After Treatment
A root canal is performed when the nerve inside your tooth becomes infected or damaged. During the procedure, we carefully clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth, seal it with a protective material, and place a temporary or permanent restoration.
Following your root canal, proper care will help ensure a smooth recovery and long-lasting results.
What to Expect
✔ Some soreness or mild swelling for a few days is normal.
✔ You may notice tenderness when biting or chewing — this should improve gradually.
✔ If you received a temporary filling or crown, it’s important to protect it until your final restoration is placed.
Care Instructions
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Medications
Take all prescribed antibiotics and/or pain medications as directed. This helps prevent infection and reduces discomfort. If you have any reaction such as itching, rash, or swelling, stop the medication and call our office immediately.
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Eating & Drinking
✔ Avoid chewing on the treated side until your final crown or filling is placed.
✔ Stick to soft foods for the first 24 hours.
✔ Avoid very hot or very cold foods if your tooth feels sensitive.
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Oral Hygiene
Continue to brush and floss gently around the treated tooth. Good oral hygiene helps healing and protects your investment in treatment.
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Permanent Restoration
A tooth that has had a root canal can become brittle over time. In most cases, we recommend placing a crown within 2–4 weeks to strengthen and protect the tooth.
When to Call Our Office
Contact us immediately if you experience:
Severe pain that doesn’t improve after a few days
Significant swelling inside or outside the mouth
An uneven bite or feeling like your filling is “too high”
Temporary filling falls out before your next appointment
Signs of infection such as fever, persistent bad taste, or drainage