POST-OP INSTRUCTIONS

You just had an extraction….. now what?

After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. That’s why we ask you to bite on a gauze pad for 45 minutes after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing persists, insert another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times.

Day 1:

  • Do not rinse or spit for 24 hours after surgery.

  • Keep your fingers and tongue away from the socket or surgical area.

  • Use ice packs on the surgical area (side of face) for the first 48 hours; apply ice 10 minutes on and 10 minutes off. (Note: Bags of frozen peas work well.)

  • For mild discomfort, take Tylenol® or Ibuprofen alternating every 3–4 hours.

  • Drink plenty of fluids. (Do not use a straw—this creates suction in the mouth that could cause complications.)

  • Use warm salt water to very gently rinse following meals for the first week to flush out particles of food and debris that may lodge in the surgical area. (Mix ½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Mouthwash can be added for better taste.

  • The goal is to keep blood clot in the socket to prevent bleeding and a painful complication known as DRY SOCKET

Following Days

  • We suggest that you do not smoke for at least 5 days after surgery.

  • Avoid strenuous activity or exercise for at least 3–4 days after surgery.

  • If the muscles of the jaw become stiff, the use of warm moist heat to the outside of your face over the spots that are stiff will relax these muscles.

  • After the first post-operative day, your diet should consist mainly of soft, easily swallowed foods and cool drinks. Avoid anything that might get stuck in your teeth, so no seeds, nuts, rice, popcorn, or similar foods.

    • Spicy, crunchy, and sticky foods might agitate the extractions site further

  • You will most likely experience one or more of the following symptoms: Minor pain, swelling, bruising, limitation in opening or closing your mouth, pain in jaw or ear, sore throat. It is important to listen to your body and take it easy. 

  • Brush gently. But again, do not spit; just let the fluid passively empty.

  • Discomfort: Over-the-counter pain medication has been proven to be effective than prescription strength pain medications that have chances of addiction

  • Swelling: Apply cold compresses to the affected area at 10 minute intervals for the first 24 hours to minimize swelling. 

  • If bleeding continues, you may use a damp tea black bag on the affected area for 30-60 minutes and keep your head elevated. Call the office if the bleeding does not subside. 

  • If you have been prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed until they are all gone, even if symptoms dissipate. 

    In case of any unusual disturbances, questions or any post surgical problems, please call the office!