After Your Surgery Post-Operative Instructions

 

         Following a tooth extraction, it is vital for a blood clot to form in the extraction socket to begin the healing process. This is why the Dr. will instruct you to bite on a gauze pad for 30 minutes after the appointment. If the bleeding persists longer than 30 minutes, use another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times until your blood clots fully. If continued bleeding persists, bite on a tea bag for 20 minutes. 

​

Please review the following additional instructions. 

​

• Do not rinse or spit for 24 hours after the extraction.

• We advise that you do not smoke for at least 3 days after surgery.

• Try to keep your fingers and tongue away from the socket area.

• Use ice packs on the surgical area (side of face) for the first 48 hours; apply ice 20 minutes on and 10 minutes off. (Note: Bags of frozen vegetables work well.)

• For discomfort, alternate Tylenol 500mg (acetaminophen) or Advil (ibuprofen) 600 mg every 3–4 hours.

• Drink adequate fluids. (Do not use a straw—this creates suction in the mouth that could cause complications.)

• If the muscles of the jaw become stiff and uncomfortable, apply warm moist heat to the outside of your face over the spots that are stiff will relax these muscles.

• Avoid strenuous activity and do not exercise for at a couple days after surgery. 

• After the first post-operative day, use a warm salt water rinse following meals for the first week to flush out particles of food and debris that may lodge in the surgical area. (Mix ½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Mouthwash can be added for better taste.)

• Your diet should consist primarily of soft, easily swallowed foods and cool drinks. Avoid anything that might get stuck in your teeth, such as chips, nuts, rice, or popcorn.