Tooth Extractions

1. BLEEDING  - After your procedure you will be biting into a gauze pad that has been placed over the surgical area.   Maintain constant pressure over the pad for at least 1 hour.  If after removal, active bleeding continues, replace this with a moistened fresh pad and maintain pressure for 1 hour.  A wet tea bag can also be used.  Do not use gauze after the first day.  Some blood in the saliva for 1-2 days is normal.  To prevent dislodging the blood clot: DO NOT spit excessively, rinse your mouth, or use straws on the day of surgery.  No smoking for at least 2 days.

2. PAIN  -  Following dental surgery it is normal to experience some discomfort.  If medication has been given or prescribed, take as instructed.  Tylenol is usually sufficient to control pain.

3. DIET  -  After the extraction, drink lots of liquids and eat soft, nutritious foods.  Avoid alcoholic beverages and hot liquids.  Begin eating solid foods the next day or as soon as you can chew comfortably.  DO NOT USE A STRAW FOR 24 HOURS.

4. RINSING  -  The day after the extraction, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water (half a teaspoon salt in an 8 oz. glass of warm water.)  Rinsing after meals is important to keep food particles out of the extraction site, but remember not to rinse your mouth vigorously. Avoid using a mouth rinse or mouthwash during this early healing period.

5. THE TOOTHBRUSH  -  Use a toothbrush carefully in the area of the mouth not involved by the surgical procedures.  A clean mouth heals faster.

6. AVOID  -  Avoid  all excessive activity, don't pick at the surgical area, don't consume liquids through a straw, avoid alcoholic beverages and refrain from smoking until healing is well established.

7. SUTURES  -  If they were used, do not fail to return for their removal on the appointment date given.