How to Care for a Mouth After Teeth Extractions

Having your tooth pulled is a scary experience, and having many teeth extracted (pulled) is even scarier. Once you have the procedure done, the hard part is recovering. You can make your recovery time quicker and easier if you take the proper steps in caring for your mouth, your gums and your remaining teeth.

Things You'll Need

• Ice
• Salt
• Water
• Soft toothbrush
• Soft foods

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Instructions

• 1

  Begin by listening to the directions the dentist gives you. Ask questions if you do not understand something.

• 2

  Allow the gauze to stay in your mouth for the time period your dentist recommended. This is usually a half hour after the teeth extraction was complete. The gauze is used to help your blood to clot.

• 3

  Take any medications given to you by the dentist as recommended.

• 4

  Use ice during the first 24 hours if swelling appears. The recommended method is 20 minute on and 20 minute off, until the swelling decreases. After 24 hours, switch to heat.

• 5

  Begin using a salt rinse the day after your surgery. The recommended mixture is 1/2 tbsp. of salt to a 12-oz. glass of water. Swish this mixture around in your mouth daily, four to six times. The salt will aid in the healing process.

• 6

  Cleanse your mouth daily. Use a soft toothbrush (this can be the one given to you by the dentist or a small child's toothbrush) and brush away any dried blood you see. Brush in one direction only, never side to side, and be gentle.

• 7

  Eat as often as you can. You need to keep up your strength. Eat soft foods.