First things first knocking out a tooth is not as scary as it sounds. Why do you need to pull out a tooth? A tooth is indicated for extraction only if we are not able to save it by any other means. Keeping an infected tooth only leads to the spread of the infection which further leads to complications.Post extraction instructions ( Step by step Guide) :After the extraction the socket in which the tooth existed becomes empty. A cotton or gauze pad is placed in the region to control the bleeding and ensure clot formation. The patient is asked to remove the cotton pad only after 45mins. Following which an ice cream can be consumed. The first 24 to 48hrs are crucial and spitting is not allowed , the blood and saliva needs to be swallowed. Spitting can dislodge the clot resulting in uncontrolled bleeding and healing will be affected. Hot spicy and hard food items are to be avoided as they can aggrevate the pain. A cold and soft diet is what is recommended. Touch the socket with the tongue , finger or brush is strictly prohibited as it’s an open wound . If microorganisms come in contact with it , an infection can occur. Gentle brushing is advised. No hard scrubbing or extending the brush till the extraction site. Some cases there might be post operative swelling, intermittent ice pack application is recommended to control the swelling. Sleeping on the extraction site is also contraindicated as any pressure can increase the swelling. Multiple injections are given during an extraction which can tighten the surrounding musculature resulting in restricted mouth opening . Mouth opening exercises can help loosen up and relax the muscles thus allowing better mouth opening. Bettadine irrigation or lukewarm water with salt rinsing can help keep the socket clean. But this is to be followed on after 24 to 48hrs. In some patients sutures are given if the socket is too wide open , sutures will usually be removed after a week or some resorb on their own. Antibiotics, painkillers and anti inflammatory drugs are prescribed to speeden up healing and combat the pain after the procedure. Recovery period usually lasts a good 7 days but some patients recover earlier as well. It varies from patient to patient and how well they follow the instructions given by the doctor. Smoking and consumption of alcohol is strictly not advised during this period as it can lead to complications. Once the desired healing is achieved the patient can resume back to normal routine. Regular follow ups with the doctor are advised. In case of any excessive pain or discomfort the patient is asked to report to the doctor immediately.