Instructions After Tooth Extraction

Bleeding

Some bleeding may occur for the first day or two. Keep gauze on the surgical area with firm pressure for 45 minutes. If bleeding continues, place new gauze and bite down for another 45 minutes. Repeat as needed. If bleeding persists, call our office.

Do not spit, smoke, or use a straw for 24 hours. These actions can dislodge the clot and cause dry socket.

Swelling

Swelling is normal and usually reaches its maximum 48 to 72 hours after surgery. To minimize swelling, apply an ice bag or a plastic bag filled with ice cubes to the cheek in the area of surgery. Apply ice for 20 minutes, then remove for 20 minutes. Repeat this cycle for the first 24 hours.

Pain

For mild to moderate pain, use non-prescription pain relief medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. For severe pain, use the prescription given to you. If the pain does not begin to subside in 2 days, or increases after 2 days, please call our office.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or food. Soft food and liquids should be eaten on the day of surgery. Return to a normal diet as soon as possible unless otherwise directed.

Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is essential to good healing. The day after surgery, the Peridex Oral Rinse should be used twice daily, after breakfast and before bed. Be sure to rinse for at least 30 seconds then spit it out. Warm salt water rinses (one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) should be used at least 4-5 times a day, as well, especially after meals.

Brushing your teeth and the healing abutments is no problem. Be gentle initially with brushing the surgical areas.

Activity

Keep physical activities to a minimum immediately following surgery. If you are considering exercise, throbbing or bleeding may occur. If this occurs, you should discontinue exercising. Keep in mind that you are probably not taking normal nourishment. This may weaken you and further limit your ability to exercise.