First Night After Tooth Extraction: A Complete Guide to Healing and Care
Having a tooth extracted can be a worrying experience, and many patients are unsure of what to expect once they leave the dental surgery. The first night after tooth extraction is particularly important, as this is when your body begins to heal, and the risk of complications is highest.
At Winchester Avenue Dental Surgery, we want to ensure that you have the best possible recovery. This guide will explain everything you need to know about managing pain, controlling bleeding, eating safely, and preventing complications after a tooth extraction in Leicester.
What Happens Right After a Tooth Extraction?
As soon as your tooth is removed, a blood clot will begin to form in the empty socket. This clot is essential for healing, as it protects the exposed bone and nerve endings while allowing new tissue to grow.
However, if the clot becomes dislodged too soon, it can lead to a painful condition known as dry socket. This is why it’s crucial to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions carefully during the first night after tooth extraction.
If you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection, contact an emergency dentist in Leicester immediately.
How to Care for Your Mouth on the First Night After Tooth Extraction
To ensure a smooth and pain-free recovery, follow these essential aftercare steps:
- Manage Bleeding Effectively
- Keep the gauze pad provided by your dentist in place for 30-45 minutes after the extraction.
- If bleeding continues, bite down on a damp tea bag—the tannins in tea help with clotting.
- Avoid spitting, rinsing, or drinking from a straw, as this can disrupt the blood clot.
- Control Pain and Swelling
- Take painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol as recommended by your dentist.
- Use an ice pack on the outside of your cheek for 10-minute intervals to reduce swelling.
- Avoid aspirin, as it can thin the blood and prolong bleeding.
- Rest and Avoid Strenuous Activities
- Take it easy for the first 24 hours—avoid exercise, bending over, or lifting heavy objects.
- Sleep with your head slightly elevated using pillows to prevent swelling and discomfort.
- Eat Soft Foods and Stay Hydrated
- Stick to soft foods like yoghurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and soup.
- Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or chewy foods that could irritate the extraction site.
- Drink plenty of water, but do not use a straw, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot.
- Keep Your Mouth Clean Without Disturbing the Extraction Site
- Avoid brushing near the extraction site on the first night.
- Do not rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours—this could wash away the blood clot.
- From the second day onwards, gently rinse with warm salt water to reduce bacteria.
For more advice on post-extraction care, visit our page on tooth extraction in Leicester.
What to Avoid on the First Night After Tooth Extraction
🚫 No smoking or vaping – These delay healing and increase infection risk.
🚫 No alcohol – It can interfere with pain medication and slow healing.
🚫 No hot drinks – Heat can dissolve the clot too soon.
🚫 No touching the extraction site – Avoid poking it with your tongue or fingers.
🚫 No heavy exercise – Increased blood pressure can cause excessive bleeding.
Following these precautions will greatly reduce your risk of complications and help ensure a smooth recovery.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While most extractions heal smoothly, you should contact your dentist if you experience:
- Excessive bleeding that doesn’t stop
- Intense pain that doesn’t improve with painkillers
- Swelling that worsens instead of improving
- A bad taste or foul-smelling discharge
- Signs of infection (fever, redness, pus formation)
For professional dental care and tooth extraction aftercare, visit our page on tooth extractions in Leicester.
Final thoughts
The first night after tooth extraction is a critical period for healing. By following your dentist’s advice, avoiding risky behaviours, and knowing when to seek help, you can speed up recovery and prevent complications.
For expert care and guidance, visit Winchester Avenue Dental Surgery or book an appointment today. Our experienced team is here to help you every step of the way!
Frequently asked questions - first night after tooth extraction
How long will bleeding last after a tooth extraction?
Some light bleeding is normal for the first few hours. If bleeding continues beyond 24 hours, contact an emergency dentist in Leicester immediately.
When can I eat solid food again?
Stick to soft foods for the first 24-48 hours. Gradually introduce solid foods as your mouth heals, but avoid chewing on the extraction side.
What should I do if I accidentally dislodge the blood clot?
If the clot comes loose, you may develop dry socket, which can be very painful. Contact a dentist as soon as possible—they may apply a medicated dressing to protect the socket.
How should I sleep after a tooth extraction?
Sleep with your head slightly elevated on pillows to reduce swelling. Avoid sleeping on the side of the extraction for at least two nights.
How do I know if my extraction site is healing properly?
Normal signs of healing include:
- Swelling that peaks in 24-48 hours and then reduces
- A blood clot covering the socket
- Gradual reduction in pain
Signs of complications include:
- Severe pain that worsens after 2-3 days
- Foul taste or bad breath (signs of infection)
- High fever or excessive swelling
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek urgent dental care at our emergency dentist in Leicester.