The length of time your mouth is numb will vary depending on the type of anesthetic used. Usually the numbness will wear off in 8-12 hours. Sometimes swelling can affect the absorption of the anesthetic and can delay things, but by 24 hours all numbness should be gone.

There is minimal bleeding after tooth extraction, which will be controlled before you leave the office. Mild presence of blood is normal up to 24 hours after the extraction.

During the first 24 hours, use an ice pack on the area to assist with swelling. A frozen bag of peas or corn will also work well as an ice pack.

Pain medications should be taken as prescribed. Call the office if medication does not seem to be working. If antibiotics are prescribed, it is important to take them for the indicated length of time, even if any symptoms have disappeared.

Swelling usually subsides in 48 – 72 hours. Ice packs should only be used for the first 24 hours of this time.

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, usually by the third day. Relax for at least 24 hours, and limit activity for a day or two. After a few days, you will feel fine and you can resume your normal activities.

Some soft foods that provide nutrition and help with healing include:

• soup (lukewarm, not hot)
• yogurt
• scrambled eggs
• pasta
• mashed potatoes
• pancakes
• ice cream

Please call the office if you have any questions or concerns. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, or continued swelling for more than three days, or reaction to the medication, call our office immediately.