Tooth Extraction Aftercare, Retainer and Night Guard Care
Care After Tooth Extraction
Choose soft, cool or room-temperature foods. Avoid hot food and drinks, especially while your mouth is still numb.
Do not spit or rinse your mouth during the first 24 hours, including with salt water. After 24 hours, you may gently rinse with warm salt water as instructed by your dentist.
Do not touch or pick at the extraction site with your fingers, tongue or any object. Brush your teeth carefully, avoiding direct contact with the wound.
During the first 24 hours, apply a cold pack to the outside of your cheek as directed by your dentist. Wrap it in a clean towel and take breaks between applications. Do not place ice directly on your skin.
Avoid smoking for at least one week. Take your medication exactly as prescribed, following the food instructions for each medicine.
Attend your follow-up appointment as scheduled. If your dentist has arranged stitch removal after 10 days, keep that appointment. Dissolvable stitches may not need removal.
Contact your dentist if you experience persistent bleeding, worsening pain or swelling, fever or an unusual bad smell from the extraction site.
How to Insert and Remove Your Retainer
Identify the correct retainer for your upper or lower teeth. Wash your hands before handling it.
Position the retainer over your front teeth, then use both hands to press gently and evenly until it fits snugly. Do not bite down to force it into place.
To remove it, gently release the retainer from the back teeth on both sides, then gradually lift it away from the front teeth. Avoid twisting it or pulling hard on one side.
When to Wear Your Retainer
Follow the wearing schedule prescribed by your orthodontist. Depending on your treatment stage, you may need to wear it throughout the day or only at night.
Clean your teeth before inserting your retainer. Do not reduce your wearing time without consulting your orthodontist.
Remove your retainer before eating or drinking anything other than cool, plain water.
How to Clean and Store Your Retainer
Clean your retainer daily after removing it. Rinse with cool water and gently brush with a soft toothbrush.
Use a cleaning product recommended by your dentist or the manufacturer. Avoid abrasive toothpaste, which can scratch the surface.
Do not use hot water or expose the retainer to heat, as this can distort its shape.
Rinse thoroughly after cleaning and follow the storage instructions for your retainer material. Keep it in its protective case whenever it is not being worn.
How to Insert and Remove Your Night Guard
Check whether your night guard is designed for your upper or lower teeth. Wash your hands before handling it.
Position the guard over your teeth, then use both hands to press gently and evenly until it fits securely.
Make sure it is properly seated. Do not force it into place if it feels unusually tight or painful.
To remove it, gently loosen the guard from the back teeth on both sides, then lift it away gradually. Do not use sharp objects to pry it off.
When to Wear Your Night Guard
Wear your night guard at night after brushing your teeth and before going to bed, or as directed by your dentist.
Remove it before eating. If it causes pain, rubs against your gums or no longer fits properly, contact your dentist for an adjustment.
How to Clean and Store Your Night Guard
Clean your night guard each morning after removing it. Rinse with cool water and gently brush with a soft toothbrush.
Use a cleaner suitable for its material, following your dentist’s or the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid abrasive toothpaste.
Do not use hot or boiling water or expose the guard to direct heat.
Rinse thoroughly after cleaning and store it in its protective case according to the care instructions provided. Clean the case regularly.
