This article provides general patient education and does not replace a dental examination, diagnosis, or personalized treatment advice. Call Urban Dental Care when you need guidance for a specific symptom or appointment.
What to know first
- Avoid chewing and hot drinks until numbness is completely gone.
- After extractions, protect the clot, avoid straws, and follow bleeding-control instructions.
- Call the office if your bite feels off, pain worsens, fever persists, swelling increases, or bleeding does not improve.
Numbness, soreness, and bite comfort
Lips, cheeks, tongue, or teeth may stay numb for several hours. Avoid chewing and hot drinks until sensation returns. Mild gum or jaw soreness is common, but call the office if your bite feels uneven or uncomfortable.
Bleeding, swelling, and food after extractions
Bite firmly on gauze as instructed, keep your head elevated if bleeding continues, and use cold packs for early swelling. Eat soft, nutritious foods, drink fluids, and avoid straws because suction can disrupt healing.
Cleaning, smoking, activity, and medication
Avoid brushing or rinsing the surgical area for the first 24 hours unless instructed otherwise. After 24 hours, clean gently and begin warm saltwater rinses as directed. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and strenuous activity early in healing, and take prescribed medications exactly as directed.