Although tooth extraction is a minor surgery, if you don't pay attention to protecting the wound after the extraction, it can also cause some trouble. So what should you be aware of after having a tooth pulled?
The cotton roll placed in your mouth by the doctor should be gently bitten down on and can only be removed after 30 minutes. On the day of the extraction, avoid loud talking, forcefully spitting phlegm or saliva, licking the wound with your tongue, or sucking on the wound to prevent negative pressure causing bleeding. Also, avoid touching it with your fingers or a toothbrush. You may eat two hours after the extraction, but avoid overly hot or hard foods, strong alcohol, smoking, or spicy foods.
Do not rinse your mouth within 6 hours as it may cause re-bleeding or infection of the wound. After 6 hours, you can gently rinse with warm salt water. You may brush your teeth the day after the extraction, but be cautious and avoid touching the wound with your toothbrush.
Within 20 hours, there may be a small amount of blood in your saliva, which is normal and shouldn't cause alarm. Even if there is heavy bleeding, don't panic. Immediately place a piece of sterilized gauze on the bleeding wound and bite down on it, then go to the emergency department at the hospital. On the day of the extraction, avoid excessive activity.
Depending on the situation, you may need to return to the hospital for a follow-up the next day. If the extraction site was sutured, generally after 5-7 days post-extraction, go to the hospital to have the stitches removed.