After Tooth Extraction

Home Care Instructions After Tooth Removal

Forming a Blood Clot

After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. That’s why we ask you to bite on a gauze pad for 20-30 minutes after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 20 minutes. You may have to do this 2-3 times.

After the blood clot forms, it is important not to disturb or dislodge the clot as it aids healing. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, smoke, drink alcohol, drink hot liquids, or brush the area overlying the extraction sites. It is recommended that you avoid all of these activities for 48 hours after surgery. These activities can dislodge or dissolve the clot and prolong the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for the next 72 hours as this will increase blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the extraction site.

We're Here to Help!

Call us with any questions or or to book an appointment. It's our Oral Surgery team's #1 priority to give you a comfortable experience. We look forward to taking care of you!

Tacoma: 253-473-0651 Puyallup: 253-799-1525 Request an Appointment

Pain & Swelling

After the tooth is extracted you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum. Take pain medications as prescribed. The swelling usually subsides after 2-3 days.

Use the pain medication as directed. Call the office if the medication doesn’t seem to be working. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time, even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone. Drink lots of fluid and eat nutritious soft food on the day of the extraction. You can eat normally as soon as you are comfortable.

Oral Hygiene

It is important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours. This should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least once a day. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.

After 5-7 days you will feel fine and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately at Tacoma Office Phone Number 253-473-0651 for our Tacoma Office and Puyallup Office Phone Number 253-799-1525 for our Puyallup Office.


Evergreen Oral Surgery

5 out of 5 stars based on 46 Tooth Extraction reviews.

Patient Testimonial By Johnna L

Very nice staff, knowledgeable, I would recommend this place of business to others .

- Johnna L

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Testimonial By Richard G

All aspects went great considering I had a tooth removed

- Richard G

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Testimonial By Lil R

Due to childhood dental trauma that revisits me in flashbacks, I have a lot of anxiety about dental procedures. Dr. Wightman and his staff were kind, understanding, and caring.

- Lil R

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Testimonial By Elizabeth H

From the moment I walked through the door, I was treated with kindness and respect. Allie made sure to answer all of our questions and concerns before my extraction. Making sure I was comfortable and understanding of the procedure to be done. DR. Wightman went above and beyond to make sure that my visit was a pleasant experience. I even got a goodie bag and a cup of ice cream on my way out the door. Thank you to the whole team for treating us with compassion and understanding.

- Elizabeth H

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Testimonial By Patrick P

Great job by Dr. Wightman and staff, my tooth is finally out, and now I'm happy again. THANK YOU!

- Patrick P

5 out of 5 stars on