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Tooth extraction is a surgical procedure. It is natural that changes will occur in your mouth afterwards. Here are some general guidelines to help promote healing, prevent complications, and make you more comfortable.
Bleeding: The area is closed with sutures which will limit any bleeding. However, a slight amount of blood may leak from the area the first day. (Remember, too, that a little bit of blood mixed with a lot of saliva can look like a lot of blood.) If there is bleeding, bite on the gauze provided to you for 10 minutes.
How to Protect the Site: Do not suck on the extraction site or disturb the sutures with your tongue. Do not brush the site for 2 weeks. The sutures will take 1-2weeks to dissolve away. After 1 week, you can cut off any loose ends if they are bothering you.
Cleaning your Mouth: Do not clean around the extractions site with your toothbrush for the first week. You should brush and floss the rest of your teeth thoroughly. If prescribed, begin using Peridex rinse the day after surgery. Please do not use Peridex for more than 2 weeks or it will cause stain on teeth.
Diet: Drink lots of liquids and eat soft, nutritious foods. Avoid hot liquids and alcoholic beverages the first day. For the first few days, try to chew food on the side opposite of the extractions site. Begin eating solid foods the next day OR as soon as you can chew comfortably. Avoid crunchy foods that can irritate the area for the first week.
Medication: We will furnish you with necessary prescriptions. Please take these as directed on the instruction sheet. Call us if you have any questions or if you experience any discomfort taking a medication.
Swelling and Pain: Some swelling is normal after extraction. The use of a cold pack is very helpful during the first 48hours to control swelling. Hold the cold pack on for no more than 20 minutes at a time. Warm (not hot) packs may be used after the third day to speed the healing process if the pack feels comfortable to use
Pain Management: 800mg Ibuprofen (4 tablets) taken three times a day is recommended for post-operative pain. Additionally, 650mg (2 tablets) of Acetaminophen can be taken in between Ibuprofen doses for additional management of post-operative pain.
Anesthetics: Take care not to bite the tongue and lip while numb. The anesthetic is long acting and may last the entire first day. If the tooth was removed on the lower jaw, there is the possibility you will experience some tingling or numbness in the lower lip for a short time. This can occur from the swelling putting pressure on the nerve canal. This feeling is normally very temporary.