Tooth Extraction – Procedure, Aftercare & Recovery

Tooth extraction refers to the pain-free removal of a damaged, decayed, infected, or mobile tooth. Dentists perform this procedure under local anesthesia, which means you will not feel pain, although you may feel mild pressure.

Dentists recommend extraction only when a tooth cannot be saved through fillings, root canal treatment, or other restorative procedures. At Jyoti Hospital, Gurugram, our Dental specialists use advanced techniques to ensure painless treatment and infection control.

When Do You Need Tooth Extraction?

You may need tooth extraction if you have:

Severe tooth pain that cannot be treated
Impacted wisdom teeth
Infected or loose teeth
Grossly decayed or fractured teeth
Retained milk teeth in children
Teeth removal for orthodontic (braces) treatment

Therefore, timely dental consultation helps prevent infection and further complications.

Important Things to Tell Your Dentist Before Extraction

Before your appointment, make sure you inform your dentist about:

High blood pressure (hypertension)
Diabetes or thyroid disorders
Seizures or neurological conditions
Allergies or medication sensitivities
Past surgeries or ongoing medications (especially blood thinners)
Pregnancy or breastfeeding status

Additionally, eat a light meal before the procedure and avoid coming on an empty stomach.
Moreover, avoid alcohol at least 24 hours before extraction, and monitor your BP and sugar levels if needed.

Post-Extraction Care: Steps to Follow After Tooth Removal

Proper aftercare ensures faster healing and fewer complications. Immediately After Extraction

Bite on the cotton gauze for 30–45 minutes to control bleeding
Avoid spitting, rinsing, or sucking for the first 24 hours
Do not touch the extraction site with fingers or tongue

Medications & Diet

After 1 hour, take the first prescribed medicine
You may consume vanilla ice cream initially
Eat only soft foods such as rice, khichdi, daliya, or curd
Avoid chewing near the extraction site
Avoid hot, spicy, and acidic foods
For Lactating Mothers, take medications before breastfeeding to ensure safety.

Lifestyle Restrictions

Avoid smoking, tobacco, and alcohol for 48–72 hours
Continue brushing your teeth, but avoid the extraction area
After 24 hours, perform warm saltwater rinses 3–4 times daily for 5–6 days

Special Care for Difficult Extractions or Impacted Teeth

If the extraction was complex:

Apply an ice pack (5 minutes on, 5 minutes off) for the first 24 hours
Rest well and avoid heavy exercise or weight lifting for 1–2 days
Return after 1 week for suture removal, if stitches were placed
Keep the area clean and report loosened stitches
Take all prescribed medications as directed

Possible Complications After Tooth Extraction

Common (Usually Minor)

Pain and swelling for a few days
Mild bleeding or oozing
Temporary jaw stiffness
Mild bruising on gums or skin

Less Common

Dry socket (severe pain if blood clot dislodges)
Infection with swelling, pus, or fever
Delayed healing (common in smokers or diabetics)
Bad taste or odor due to trapped food or infection

Rare but Possible

Damage to nearby teeth or fillings
Temporary nerve numbness (lip, chin, tongue)
Sinus involvement (upper back teeth)
Jaw fracture (extremely rare)

When to Contact Your Dentist Immediately

Seek urgent dental care at Jyoti Hospital, if you experience:

Persistent or heavy bleeding
Severe pain lasting beyond 2–3 days
Increasing swelling or fever
Numbness that does not improve
Signs of infection or pus

Early reporting helps prevent serious complications.

In Summary

Tooth extraction is a safe and routine dental procedure when performed by experienced professionals. By following proper aftercare instructions, patients can ensure smooth healing and faster recovery.

At Jyoti Hospital, Gurugram, our Dental team provides pain-free tooth extraction, expert post-procedure care, and patient-focused support for a comfortable recovery.

Book Your Appointment

Book your appointment now at booking.jyotihospital.org or Call Now.

FAQs

Is tooth extraction painful?
- No. Dentists use local anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the procedure. You may feel mild pressure.
How long does it take to heal after tooth extraction?
- Initial healing takes 7–10 days, while complete healing may take a few weeks.
What should I avoid after tooth extraction?
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, hot foods, spitting, and strenuous activity for at least 48–72 hours.
What is dry socket, and how can I prevent it?
- Dry socket occurs when the blood clot dislodges. Avoid rinsing, smoking, or sucking through straws for 24 hours.
Can I eat after tooth extraction?
- Yes. Eat soft foods such as yogurt, rice, khichdi, and soups. Avoid chewing on the extraction side.
When should I contact a dentist after extraction?
- Contact your dentist if you experience severe pain, swelling, bleeding, fever, or pus.