How to Know if You Need a Tooth Removed
November 10, 2025
At Washington Family Dental, we understand that the thought of discomfort after oral surgery can make many patients nervous. Our team, led by Dr. Lesinski, provides gentle, compassionate surgical care that focuses on helping every patient recover comfortably and confidently.
While some soreness and swelling are a normal part of healing, following the right combination of medication, self-care, and diet can make all the difference. This guide explains what to expect after oral surgery and how to keep pain under control throughout your recovery.
If you’ve recently had oral surgery or are preparing for one, here’s what you need to know to stay comfortable as you heal.
This Article Will Address
- What over-the-counter pain medications are safe after oral surgery
- When to stop taking prescription pain medication
- Home remedies to relieve discomfort
- How to care for the surgical site and prevent complications
- What foods to eat and avoid during recovery
- When to be concerned about pain after surgery
- Why patients in Washington, MI, trust Washington Family Dental for oral surgery care
What Over-the-Counter Pain Medications Are Safe After Oral Surgery?
After oral surgery, most patients can manage discomfort with over-the-counter medications.
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) – Helps reduce swelling and pain
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) – Works well for pain control if NSAIDs are not tolerated
- Combination therapy – Alternating doses of the two medications can often provide better comfort than prescription opioids. This follows the recommendations from the CDC and American Dental Association.
Always follow your dentist’s recommendations for dosage and timing.
When Can I Stop Taking Prescription Pain Medication?
Prescription pain medication is typically only needed for the first one to three days after your procedure. Once your discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter options, it’s safe to taper off the prescription. The goal is to minimize side effects and support a healthy, natural recovery.
If you find yourself still relying on prescription medication after several days, contact our office for an evaluation.
What Home Remedies Help Ease Pain After Tooth Extraction or Oral Surgery?
Simple home care steps can significantly reduce discomfort and promote faster healing.
- Apply ice packs for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off during the first 24–48 hours to control swelling.
- Keep your head elevated when resting to reduce throbbing and pressure.
- Take it easy. Gentle movement is fine, but avoid strenuous activity for a few days.
- Use salt-water rinses starting 24 hours after surgery to clean the area gently.
- Stick to soft, cool foods such as smoothies, yogurt, or mashed potatoes.
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, and drinking through straws, as these can dislodge the healing clot and lead to complications.
How Do I Care for the Surgical Site to Prevent Pain-Causing Complications?
After an extraction or other oral surgery, protecting the surgical site is crucial. The blood clot that forms in the socket is what allows your body to heal properly. If it becomes dislodged, it can lead to dry socket—a painful condition that exposes underlying bone.
Prevention Tips
- Avoid using straws or spitting forcefully.
- Refrain from smoking for at least 48 hours.
- Stick to soft foods until your dentist advises otherwise.
- Begin gentle rinsing with warm salt water after the first 24 hours.
Oral Hygiene Guidelines After Surgery
For the first day, avoid brushing the surgical site. After 24 hours, use a soft toothbrush and brush carefully around the area. Skip alcohol-based mouthwashes until you’re fully healed.
If you experience increasing pain, a bad taste, or visible bone where the tooth was removed, contact Washington Family Dental immediately.
What Foods Should I Eat (and Avoid) to Minimize Pain After Oral Surgery?
A proper diet supports healing and comfort after your procedure. Choose foods that are soft, cool, and easy to chew.
Recommended foods:
- Yogurt and smoothies
- Applesauce and mashed potatoes
- Soup and scrambled eggs
Avoid:
- Crunchy or hard foods like chips and nuts
- Chewy items such as steak or gum
- Hot liquids, alcohol, and carbonated drinks
Hydration & Nutrition to Support Healing
Stay hydrated with water or non-acidic fluids. Nutrients like protein, vitamin C, and zinc help repair tissue and reduce inflammation.
When You Can Transition to a Normal Diet
Most patients can resume regular eating within three to seven days, but always follow your dentist’s guidance. Everyone heals at a slightly different pace.
When Should I Be Concerned About My Post-Surgery Pain?
Mild discomfort is expected, but pain should gradually improve each day. You should contact Washington Family Dental if you notice any of the following:
- Pain that worsens after the third or fourth day
- Excessive bleeding or pus near the surgical site
- Persistent numbness or tingling
- Fever or swelling that increases instead of improving
- Sharp, throbbing pain that radiates to the ear or jaw (possible dry socket)
Why Choose Washington Family Dental for Your Oral Surgery Procedure?
- Led by Dr. Lesinski, who studied biochemistry and dentistry at the University of Detroit Mercy
- Comprehensive services under one roof, from preventive and restorative care to oral surgery
- Advanced technology, including CEREC same-day crowns, enhancing convenience and precision
- Transparent pricing and a $99 new patient special for those without insurance
- A reputation for comfort: “There was no pain… He really did a great job,” says one satisfied patient.
Gentle, Expert Care to Help Your Oral Surgery Recovery
Managing pain after oral surgery is a combination of using the right medications, practicing good self-care, maintaining oral hygiene, and following your dentist’s instructions closely.
At Washington Family Dental, our caring team is committed to providing gentle oral surgery and the personalized follow-up that ensures a smooth recovery.
If you’re ready to schedule your oral surgery or have questions about managing post-operative pain, contact Washington Family Dental today to book an appointment.