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.

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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 Marsha A

Did not feel rushed....very skilled.....open for questions.... explained medication....

- Marsha A

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Testimonial By Lisa C

You guys made a very unpleasant issue (my infected tooth) easy to deal with. I would HIGHLY recommend Evergreen Oral Surgery to ANYONE!!!

- Lisa C

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Patient Testimonial By Dimetry A

I had a great and positive experience at your office today. The level of sincere care, friendly staff, level of experience and the best communication before, during and after the procedure . You guys are awesome. Thank you

- Dimetry A

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Patient Testimonial By Juli C

Best experience I’ve ever had Bailey the assistant was amazing

- Juli C

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Patient Testimonial By Jennifer B

I have had nothing but great experiences in dealing with Evergreen. My recent dental issues have been quite painful, complex and frustrating but they have helped to resolve them and make it as easy as it could be. The office staff are kind and welcoming. Bailey is a wizard with starting IV's; I have always had severe IV anxiety and she is so proficient in her work that you almost don't even know it happened. I will definitely recommend this office to our friends and family!!

- Jennifer B

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