After tooth extraction, it is imperative to follow the dentist’s after-care instructions in order to achieve the most propitious prognosis. Patients should: • Get an ample amount of rest • Allow the extraction site to clot • Use ice packs to reduce swelling & pain • Take medicines as prescribed by the dentist • Eating soft foods such as soups, mashed potatoes, yogurts, milkshakes, smoothies Patients should avoid: • Smoking for at least 48 hours • Eating solids immediately after • Using warm saline rinses • Aspirin — do not ever take aspirin after tooth extraction as it is a blood thinner (this can delay clotting and prevent proper healing) • Sucking of any type, including smoking, sipping, drinking with a straw, and eating hard vegetables • Hot drinks, spicy foods, sodas • Poking into the gap created