• Bite on the gauze for 30–45 minutes after the procedure. Replace only if active bleeding continues. A small amount of oozing is normal for 24 hours.
• Do not rinse, spit forcefully, smoke, vape, or use straws for 24 hours; these actions can dislodge the clot and cause a dry socket. After 24 hours, begin gentle warm saltwater rinses 2–3 times daily.
• Use prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed by your healthcare provider. Swelling is expected and peaks at 48–72 hours.
• Apply ice packs to the cheek for the first 24 hours, alternating 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off. After 24 hours, switch to warm compresses if needed.
• Soft diet for the first 24–48 hours. Avoid sharp, crunchy, or hot foods. Chew away from the extraction site.
• Brush normally, but avoid the socket for the first day. From the second day onward, gently clean the area to prevent plaque accumulation.
• If sutures were placed, follow the removal schedule if they are not dissolvable. If dissolvable, they typically loosen and fall out within 5–14 days.
• Bruising may occur and is normal. Numbness may last several hours; biting soft tissue is a common risk—monitor children closely.
  Call immediately if:
  • Bleeding does not slow after firm pressure with gauze or a damp tea bag
  • Swelling worsens significantly after day three
  • Fever develops
  • Sudden increase in pain occurs after initial improvement (possible dry socket)