Is there anything I can do to help my mouth heal after an extraction?
Different people heal at different speeds afterwards. It’s important to keep the mouth and extraction site as clean as possible, making sure that the socket is clear of all food and debris.
Don’t rinse for the first 24 hours either, as this will help your mouth start the healing process. After this time use a warm salt-water mouthwash, which helps to heal the socket. A teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water gently rinsed around the socket twice a day can help to clean and heal the area. Keep this up for at least a week or so or for as long as your dentist tells you.
Avoid exercise and alcohol for at least 24 hours after extraction, as both of these may cause a rise in blood pressure and thus promote bleeding. Avoid smoking for at least 24 hours after oral surgery / tooth extraction.