Tooth extraction after care

TOOTH EXTRACTION AFTER CARE

WHAT TO EXPECT?

Bleeding: A little bleeding or “oozing” for the first 12-24 hours. Leave it alone as it is probably just minor.

Swelling: Some swelling and discoloration are normal following a surgical procedure in the mouth. It should reach its maximum in two-to-three days after the extraction and should begin to diminish by the fifth post-extraction day.

Discomfort: The most discomfort that you may experience may occur for a few hours after the sensation returns to your mouth. It may gradually increase again for 2-3 days, and then begin to diminish over the next few days.

THINGS TO DO IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING SURGERY

For bleeding: Keep head elevated and rest. Do not suck or spit excessively. Do not pull your lip or cheek to look at the surgical site.

NOTE: Some oozing and discoloration of the saliva are normal. If bleeding is severe or persists, moisten gauze or a tea bag, wring out the excess water and place it against the area from where the bleeding is coming. Hold in place with moderate finger pressure for 20 minutes. Repeat as necessary.

For swelling: Place ice or cold compresses on the region of surgery (ten minutes on ten minutes off) for the first 8-12 hours.

NOTE: Ice bags or cold compresses should only be used on the day of extraction.

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

After the blood clot forms, it is essential not to disturb or dislodge the clot as it aids in healing.

For the first 24 to 48 hours after the procedure please:

1. Do not rinse your mouth vigorously.

2. Do not smoke or drink alcohol.

3. Avoid hard food and hard brushing near the extracted area.

4. Avoid excessive exercise.

5. Stay relaxed and take it easy for the rest of the day.

6. Gentle rinsing with lukewarm water with 1 teaspoon of salt,24 hours after extraction if required, or antiseptic mouthwash as instructed by your dentist.

These activities will dislodge or dissolve the clot and retard the healing process.

Take pain medications as prescribed. Do not take Aspirin as pain medication as it thins the blood and increases the bleeding. If Aspirin is a part of your routine medication do not stop taking it without your doctor's or your dentist's advice. In case of any swelling, it usually subsides after 48 hours.

Use the pain medication as directed. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time, even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone. Drink lots of fluids and eat nutritious soft food on the day of the extraction. You can eat normally as soon as you are comfortable.

It is important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours. This should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least once a day. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.

After a few days, you will feel fine and can resume your normal activities.