Dental Recovery: What to Do Right After Your Procedure

Got a tooth pulled, an implant placed, or a root canal finished? The next few days matter a lot for how fast you feel normal again. Below are the no‑nonsense steps that help the site heal, cut down pain, and keep infection away.

First 24‑48 Hours: Keep It Simple

Right after the dentist stitches you up, focus on three things: cold, clean, and soft. Put an ice pack on the cheek for 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off – it reduces swelling quickly. Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies (no straw, the suction can pull the clot loose).

Don’t forget the rinse. After the first 24 hours, gently swish a half‑cup of warm salty water (½ tsp salt in 8 oz water) a few times a day. It flushes away bacteria without irritating the site.

Take any prescribed antibiotics or pain meds exactly as your dentist says. If you’re using over‑the‑counter ibuprofen, 400 mg every 6 hours works for most people, but avoid aspirin if you’re on blood thinners.

Long‑Term Care: Keep the Healing Going

After the first couple of days, you can gradually add more texture. Switch to oatmeal, soft fruits, and well‑cooked veggies. Chew on the side opposite the surgery for a few days – it gives the gum time to seal.

Good oral hygiene is key, but be gentle. Use a soft‑bristled toothbrush and avoid the surgical spot for the first week. When you do brush near the area, use a light circular motion; a dab of fluoride toothpaste is enough.

Watch for warning signs. Increasing pain after three days, a foul taste, or swelling that gets worse instead of better could mean an infection. Call your dentist right away – early treatment prevents bigger problems.

Follow‑up appointments are not optional. The dentist will check that the bone around an implant is integrating and that a tooth extraction socket is closing properly. Skipping this visit can hide issues that become painful later.

Finally, stay hydrated but skip carbonated drinks and alcohol for at least a week. Both can dry out the mouth and delay healing.

Stick to these steps, and you’ll be back to normal chewing, smiling, and talking in no time. Dental recovery doesn’t have to be a mystery – just a few easy habits make all the difference.