Managing Pain After a Tooth Extraction: Simple Remedies
Tooth extractions are never anyone’s idea of a good time, but sometimes they’re absolutely necessary. Whether it’s a troublesome wisdom tooth or a decayed molar that had to go, what comes next is just as important as the procedure itself — managing the pain. I’ve been through it myself, and I know how uncomfortable those first few days can be. But with a few simple remedies and a bit of know-how, you can make recovery a lot smoother.
Why Does It Hurt After a Tooth Extraction?
First, let’s talk about why there’s pain in the first place. When a tooth is pulled, it leaves behind an open socket in the gum and jawbone. Naturally, your body responds with inflammation and swelling — part of the healing process. The nerves in the area are also more exposed, which can make everything feel extra tender.
The key is managing that pain effectively, especially in the first 24–72 hours when it’s at its worst. Here’s how I managed mine and what many dental professionals here in New Zealand recommend.
1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
One of the easiest ways to manage pain is with over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Ibuprofen (like Nurofen) and paracetamol (Panadol) are commonly used here in NZ and work well when taken as directed.
- Ibuprofen is great because it not only reduces pain but also brings down inflammation.
- Paracetamol is a good alternative if you can’t take anti-inflammatories.
Personally, I found alternating between the two (as advised by my dentist) gave me the best coverage throughout the day. Always follow the dosage instructions on the box and check with your dentist or pharmacist if you’re unsure.
2. Cold Compresses to Reduce Swelling
A cold pack can be a real lifesaver in those first 24 hours. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 15–20 minutes at a time can help reduce swelling and numb the area. I used a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel — it worked wonders.
Just don’t apply ice directly to your skin, and avoid prolonged exposure. Keep it on for 15 minutes, then take a break. Repeat as needed.
3. Stick to a Soft-Food Diet
After the extraction, chewing can be painful and even risky if food gets caught in the socket. I stuck with soft foods like mashed potatoes, yoghurt, scrambled eggs, and soups for the first few days. Avoid anything too hot, crunchy, spicy, or acidic — these can irritate the area or cause discomfort.
Also, make sure to chew on the opposite side of your mouth and avoid using straws. The suction from drinking through a straw can dislodge the blood clot and lead to a painful condition called dry socket — trust me, you don’t want that.
4. Keep Your Mouth Clean — Gently
Good oral hygiene is key to preventing infection, but you’ve got to be gentle. I waited 24 hours before rinsing my mouth, then used a warm saltwater solution (about half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) a few times a day.
Don’t spit forcefully or swish too hard. Just let the water sit in your mouth and then gently tip your head to let it flow out.
5. Elevate Your Head While Resting
One thing I didn’t think of at first was how lying flat could increase blood flow to the head and make the pain feel worse. I started using an extra pillow to keep my head slightly elevated while sleeping or resting, and it made a surprising difference.
6. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
It’s tempting to have a glass of wine or a quick smoke, especially if you’re feeling stressed after the procedure, but both can slow healing and increase your risk of complications. I avoided both for at least 72 hours — your mouth will thank you for it.
Managing pain after a tooth extraction doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a bit of preparation and the right remedies — like trusted OTC meds, cold compresses, and a gentle care routine — you can navigate those tricky first days and get back to normal faster. I followed these steps myself and had a relatively smooth recovery, and I’m hopeful they’ll work just as well for you.
