How Do I Get Rid of Sore Gums After a Tooth Extraction?

Take steps to care for gums after tooth extraction.

Before your tooth extraction, you will be asked about your medical history and undergo tooth x-ray. Antibiotics may be prescribed before and after the extraction. After the extraction, a blood clot should form to cover the extraction site. This will help the gum to heal. The dentist or oral surgeon should give you pain medication. According to dentalfearcentral.org, you should avoid aspirin, as it thins the blood and could cause more bleeding. Have someone to drive you home. Follow steps to get rid of sore gums after a tooth extraction.

Things You'll Need

• Pain medication
• Gauze

Instructions

1. 

   Take your pain medication.

   Begin taking pain medication as soon as possible.

2. 

   Relax after your extraction.

   Avoid strenuous activity for at least two hours.

3. Do not spit or suck.

4. 

   Use gauze on the extraction site.

   Wad up gauze and bite down on the extraction site to stop bleeding. (Your oral surgeon will probably have this for you.)

Tips & Warnings

• The dentist will tell you when to start solid food.

• Do not brush your teeth or rinse your mouth for 12 hours.

• Call the oral surgeon if your pain increases or if you get a fever or chills.

References

• Dental Fear Central: Healing after Extractions and Oral Surgery

Resources

• Animated Teeth: Tooth extraction aftercare