After Tooth Extractions

After tooth extraction, it's important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and start the healing process. Follow these instructions to ensure proper healing:

Immediate Care

  • Bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes after the appointment.
  • If bleeding or oozing persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. Repeat if necessary.

Important Precautions

  • Do not disturb the blood clot. Avoid:
    Rinsing vigorously
    Sucking on straws
    Smoking
    Drinking alcohol
    Brushing teeth next to the extraction site for 72 hours
  • Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours to prevent increased bleeding.

Managing Pain and Swelling

  • Use an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas on the affected area to minimize swelling.
  • Take pain medications as prescribed. Swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.
  • Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious soft foods the day of the extraction.

Post-Extraction Dental Care

  • Resume normal dental routines, including brushing and flossing, after 24 hours.
  • If you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling, or a reaction to medication, contact our office at 602-248-8745.

After Multiple Tooth Extractions

After multiple extractions, follow these additional guidelines:

Bleeding Management

  • Place a gauze pad over the bleeding socket and apply biting pressure for 30 minutes.
  • If bleeding continues, use a moist tea bag for 30 minutes.
  • Avoid hot liquids, exercise, and keep your head elevated if bleeding occurs.

Pain Management

  • For mild discomfort, use:
    Aspirin, Tylenol, or similar medication (two tablets every 3-4 hours)
    Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) 200mg (2-3 tablets every 3-4 hours)
  • For severe pain, use the prescribed medication. If pain does not subside or increases after 2 days, call our office.
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Additional Care Tips

  • Drink at least six glasses of fluid on the first day to replace lost blood.
  • Avoid rinsing your mouth for the first day. After 24 hours, rinse with warm salt water every 4 hours and after meals.
  • Restrict your diet to liquids and soft foods initially, and gradually return to normal foods as the wounds heal.

Expected Post-Operative Conditions

  • Swelling and discoloration may occur around the eyes; apply a moist warm towel after 36 hours.
  • A sore throat or dry, cracked mouth corners may develop. Keep lips moist with ointment like Vaseline.
  • If immediate dentures have been inserted, expect some sore spots. Your dentist will adjust them within 24-48 hours post-surgery.
American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons