Tooth extractions, whether simple or surgical, are common procedures aimed at protecting your oral health. After an extraction, its normal to experience facial tenderness, jaw soreness, and mild swelling as part of the natural healing process. Fortunately, there are several simple and effective ways to relieve this discomfort and speed up recovery.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we are committed to supporting you through every step of your dental care journey. This guide offers practical advice on reducing facial tenderness after tooth extraction, helping you heal comfortably and confidently.
Why Facial Tenderness Happens After Tooth Extraction
Tissue inflammation: The gum, bone, and surrounding tissues respond to surgery with swelling and soreness.
Jaw muscle strain: Keeping the mouth open during the procedure can lead to muscle fatigue and tenderness.
Bone involvement: Surgical extractions often require bone manipulation, contributing to facial discomfort.
Pressure sensitivity: The neighboring jaw and cheek muscles may become tender as the body heals.
Effective Ways to Reduce Facial Tenderness Post-Extraction
1. Apply Cold Compresses (First 2448 Hours)
Use an ice pack or cold compress on the outside of your face near the extraction site.
Apply for 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off, several times a day.
Helps reduce swelling, numb the area, and minimize discomfort.
2. Switch to Warm Compresses After 48 Hours (If Needed)
Use a warm, damp towel to relieve lingering tenderness and promote circulation.
Apply for 1520 minutes, 23 times daily after the first two days.
3. Keep Your Head Elevated
Sleep with an extra pillow or stay semi-upright for the first 23 nights.
Reduces blood flow to the affected area, minimizing swelling and throbbing.
4. Stick to a Soft Food Diet
Eat soft, gentle foods that require minimal chewing:
Mashed potatoes
Yogurt
Applesauce
Scrambled eggs
Smoothies (without straws)
Avoid chewy, crunchy, spicy, or hot foods that can irritate the extraction site.
5. Take Prescribed or Over-the-Counter Medications
Use ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or medications prescribed by your dentist to manage pain and inflammation.
Follow dosage instructions precisely.
6. Gentle Jaw Exercises (After 23 Days)
Open and close your mouth slowly.
Move the jaw side-to-side gently to reduce stiffness caused by jaw muscle tension.
Helps relieve tenderness without overexerting the healing area.
7. Avoid Activities That Can Worsen Tenderness
No smoking or drinking through straws (can cause dry socket).
Avoid vigorous spitting, heavy lifting, or strenuous exercise for 4872 hours.
Foods That Help Reduce Inflammation
Anti-inflammatory options:
Avocados
Bananas
Soft steamed vegetables
Greek yogurt
Mashed sweet potatoes
Stay hydrated with water; avoid sugary, alcoholic, or carbonated drinks.
When to Contact McLevin Dental Clinic
Call us if:
Facial tenderness worsens instead of improving after 34 days.
Swelling continues or spreads significantly.
You experience persistent, severe pain not relieved by medication.
There are signs of infection:
Pus
Fever
Foul odor
Gum discoloration
Healing Timeline After Tooth Extraction
First 2448 hours: Swelling and tenderness peak.
Days 35: Swelling starts to subside; tenderness reduces noticeably.
1 week: Most soreness resolves; soft tissues continue healing.
2 weeks: Full soft tissue closure occurs for most simple extractions.
Long-Term Care to Protect Healing and Jaw Comfort
Continue brushing and flossing the unaffected areas.
Rinse with warm saltwater (½ teaspoon salt in 1 cup warm water) starting 24 hours post-extraction.
Avoid chewing on the extraction side until the area feels comfortable.
Attend follow-up appointments at McLevin Dental Clinic to monitor healing.
Support Comfortable Healing with the Right Care
Facial tenderness after tooth extraction is a normal and temporary part of the healing process. Simple strategies like cold compresses, jaw rest, a soft diet, and gentle exercises help relieve discomfort quickly and promote recovery.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, our team is dedicated to guiding you through a smooth healing journey and ensuring your comfort every step of the way.
Schedule Your Post-Extraction Follow-Up Today
Experiencing tenderness after a recent extraction or have concerns about your healing? Contact McLevin Dental Clinic today. Our expert dental professionals are here to ensure your comfort and support your oral health recovery.