When to seek emergency care
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department for difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, rapidly spreading facial swelling, high fever with facial swelling or another life-threatening symptom.
What often happens in the first day
- Mild bleeding that gradually slows
- Swelling that peaks in the first 1–2 days
- Discomfort managed with recommended pain relief
Care tips commonly recommended
- Bite gently on gauze as directed to help control bleeding
- Rest for the remainder of the day
- Use a cold compress outside the cheek in short intervals
- Eat soft foods and avoid the extraction area
- Avoid using straws, spitting forcefully or smoking
Later in recovery
Soft-tissue healing typically progresses over the following days to weeks. Rinsing with warm salt water once cleared by the dentist can be part of ongoing care.
When to contact the office
- Bleeding that does not slow after several hours
- Increasing pain after the first 2–3 days
- Swelling that spreads or worsens
- Fever or a bad taste in the mouth
Related resources
Talk with a dentist about your situation
Call (432) 999-4078 or use the appointment-request form to discuss your options with the practice. Submitting a request does not guarantee an appointment; the office will follow up to confirm availability.
Frequently asked questions
This information is provided for general educational purposes and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for an examination by a qualified dental professional. Individual causes, symptoms, treatment options and recovery can vary.