Facing a tooth extraction can stir up a mix of worry, relief and, of course, so many questions! At Lifetime Dental in Gainesville, GA, we believe in delivering care that doesn’t end when you leave our office. We picture a world where your recovery is smooth, your questions are answered and you feel confident every step of the way.
After all, the real work of healing starts when you get home. Good post-op care isn’t just about comfort; it’s about protecting your health and helping you return to your daily routine quickly. Dr. Shue Her, owner of Lifetime Dental and a trusted Gainesville dentist, says, “We treat every patient like family. We want you to feel safe, informed and supported through every stage of care, especially after a procedure like tooth extraction.”
One patient shared, “I was nervous about my extraction, but Dr. Her explained everything and checked on me after. I followed his instructions and had almost no pain. I felt cared for the whole time.”
The First 24 Hours Following Tooth Extraction
After your tooth is removed, a blood clot forms in the socket, which is the body’s natural bandage and is crucial to healing. Bite gently on the gauze pad we place after your extraction for about 30-45 minutes. If bleeding continues, replace it with a fresh piece of gauze as needed. Avoid spitting, rinsing or sucking through a straw for the rest of the day, as these actions can dislodge the clot and delay healing.
How Do I Manage My Pain and Swelling After My Tooth Extraction?
Mild discomfort and swelling are common. Use an ice pack on your cheek, alternating 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off for the first few hours. Take any prescribed or recommended pain medication as directed. Dr. Her notes, “Most patients feel better within a day or two when they follow the right post-op instructions for their tooth extraction.” If you experience severe pain or swelling that worsens after 48 hours, call our office right away.
Can I Eat And Drink After Surgery?
Yes, but be careful! Your mouth will be sensitive, so choose soft, cool foods like yogurt, applesauce or pudding for the first day. Avoid hot foods and drinks, crunchy foods or anything that can get stuck in the extraction site. Don’t drink alcohol or smoke, as these can slow healing and increase the risk of complications. Hydration is important, but remember to sip and never use a straw.
Patient feedback makes a difference: “I was worried I’d be starving, but the team gave me a list of foods and even called to check on me.”
Can I Brush My Teeth After A Tooth Extraction?
You can brush your teeth the night of your extraction, but avoid the surgical site. The next day, use a warm saltwater solution (½ teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of water) to gently rinse your mouth after meals and before bed. Do not use commercial mouth rinses unless Dr. Her recommends it.
One patient wrote, “I appreciated the simple salt rinse advice; it kept my mouth fresh and my healing on track.”
When Can I Go Back To Work After My Tooth Extraction?
Most people feel well enough to return to work or school within a day or two. Full healing usually takes one to two weeks, and as Dr. Her explains, “Every patient is different, but with the right care, most people recover quickly and with minimal discomfort.” One patient review stands out: “I was so anxious, but Dr. Her’s instructions were clear and detailed. My recovery was much easier than I expected. I’m grateful for the care I received.”
It’s normal to have mild discomfort, but call our office if you notice persistent bleeding, swelling that doesn’t improve, fever or signs of infection. Dr. Her and our Lifetime Dental team are here for you, day and night. We can be reached at (770) 536-6688. “You deserve peace of mind,” Dr. Her says. “We want you to know we’re ready to help with any questions or concerns, no matter how small.”
Compassionate Care at Lifetime Dental in Gainesville, GA
From your first consultation to your final checkup, Dr. Shue Her and our entire team are committed to treating you like family. You deserve expert care, clear communication and a gentle approach. Our patients’ words say it best: “I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my dental care. Dr. Her is thorough, kind and always explains what to expect.”
Located at 1419 Pearce Cir, Gainesville, GA, Lifetime Dental offers a full range of services, from simple extractions to complex oral surgery, preventive care and family dentistry. We serve Hall County and the surrounding area with a commitment to your comfort and well-being. Call to schedule your appointment today. Experience compassion and care from procedure to post-op instructions. We’re here to help you heal well and smile brighter, because you deserve care that lasts a lifetime.
Dr. Shue Her, DDS – Author Bio
Dr. Shue Her is the owner and lead dentist at Lifetime Dental of Gainesville, GA. With advanced training and years of hands-on experience, Dr. Shue specializes in gentle, effective tooth extractions and comprehensive post-operative care. He is known for his clear, patient-focused instructions that help patients heal comfortably and confidently after dental procedures. Dr. Shue’s expertise and compassionate approach make him a trusted authority on post-op instructions for tooth extraction in the Gainesville community.
