After Tooth Extraction/Surgical Procedure

TO CONTROL BLEEDING:

After tooth extraction or surgical procedure, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. Bite on a gauze pad for 60-90 minutes immediately after the appointment, changing the gauze every 15-20 minutes. Some slight oozing may persist for 12-24 hours. This is normal and does not require gauze. Should heavy bleeding resume, moisten, then squeeze out excess liquid from a tea bag and bite firmly for 15 minutes, then remove. Should heavy bleeding continue, please call the office.

RINSING:

After the blood clot forms, it is important not to disturb or dislodge the clot. Do not rinse vigorously; suck on straws or smoke. We also ask that you avoid brushing your teeth next to the extraction site for 24 hours. These activities may dislodge or dissolve the clot and hinder the healing process. In 24 hours, you may rinse the mouth with warm salt water (1/4 tsp salt, 1/2 glass of warm water) 3-4 times daily. You may also resume brushing and flossing, being careful of the surgical area for the first few days.

PAIN:

In the event that you have pain, take Tylenol or ibuprofen as directed on the bottle. If a prescription for pain medication has been given to you, take it with something in your stomach, as it can cause nausea. Prescription pain medication may also impair reflexes. Do not operate machinery, cars, etc, while taking these drugs. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time, even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone.

SWELLING:

After a surgical procedure, you may experience some swelling. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off will keep swelling to a minimum. The swelling usually subsides after 48 hours. Bruising or some slight discoloration may accompany the swelling; this is considered normal.

DIET:

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.

After a few days, you should feel fine and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately at Concord Office Phone Number 978-369-2525 or Lexington Office Phone Number 781-861-8855.