you to bite on a gauze pad for at least 45 minutes after the appointment. Do NOT talk. Do NOT spit. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, change the gauze when it becomes saturated or every 2 to 3 hours. When the bleeding stops, the gauze may be removed. A small amount of ooze (bloody saliva) is normal for the first 24-48 hours. Hint: cover your pillow with a towel to prevent blood stains.
After the blood clot forms, it is important not to disturb or dislodge the clot as it aids healing. Do not rinse vigorously, smoke, use straws, spit, drink alcohol or brush teeth next to the extraction site for 72 hours. Also, avoid heavy exercise. These activities will dislodge or dissolve the clot and retard the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours as this will increase blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the extraction site.
Warm salt water rinses (1 tsp./6 oz. water), 3-4 times per day, beginning the day after your surgery will aid in healing. Do not rinse or spit forcefully.
After the tooth is extracted you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. Keep your head elevated (use some extra pillows) relative to the rest of your body. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum (Do not apply ice directly on the skin). Use the ice pack as much as possible for 24-48 hours (30 minutes on and 30 minutes off). Stop using ice after 48 hours. Start utilizing heat on the 3rd day. If you have a removable gel pack then place it in the microwave at 5 second increments until hot. Place gel packs into a sleeve or wrap to avoid injury and direct contact of the heat with your skin. Swelling usually peaks between 48 to 72 hours.
Take pain medications as prescribed for pain. Hint: Do NOT take any medication on an empty stomach especially pain medications. Usually pain is greatest after the local anesthesia wears off and gradually improves within the first 48 hours. Even if you have no pain whatsoever, it is recommended you take ibuprofen (only if you are not hypersensitive or allergic) 400 mg by mouth every 4 hours for the first 24-48 hours. If you are taking any medications on a regular basis, please continue to do so, unless instructed otherwise. Call the office if the medication doesn’t seem to be working. 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 fluid and eat nutritious soft food on the day of the extraction. You can eat normally as soon as you are comfortable. Do NOT drive while using narcotic pain medications.
Initial Food suggestions (examples only) – Start soft and advance as tolerated. Start with room temperature or colder water or soda to make sure the stomach is settled but DO NOT drink with a straw because it may cause dry socket. Avoid hot liquids. Avoid alcoholic beverages. For the first 2 days consider foods that require very little jaw movement and will minimize soreness during the healing process including:
These are only suggestions! Avoid seeds, nuts, popcorn, potato chips, and crumbly foods.
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. Rinsing may be performed after bleeding ceases and should be performed gently. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.
Nausea and vomiting can and does occur, usually because of swallowing blood. Medications can also cause nausea. Taking small sips of a carbonated beverage and rest sometimes will help ease an upset stomach. While nauseated, gently continue clear liquids to prevent dehydration. For severe or persistent nausea, do NOT take anything except Advil or Tylenol for pain; use lots of ice. Once nausea ceases you may resume the medications as directed. If nausea and vomiting continue for longer than 15-24 hours, call the doctor for further instructions.
After a few days you will feel fine and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, s