After Tooth Extraction
Gauze Packing: Gauze was placed over the surgical site to serve as a pressure bandage when you bite down. The gauze can be removed when it is pink in color, or spotty. If the gauze is still red, please continue to change it every 30 minutes until there is no blood. Use the tea bag provided, if bleeding does not stop after several hours.
Rinsing: Rinsing and spitting should not be attempted during the first 12 hours after surgery as it may prematurely dissolve your blood clot. Rinse with the Peridex morning and night after brushing beginning the evening of surgery. Warm salt water rinses (approx 6oz glass of water with pinch of table salt) should be used after meals, beginning the day after surgery.
Brush Your Teeth: You should continue to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth 3 times a day. Gently brush the surgical site starting the evening of surgery.
Suture/Dressing: A variety of suture and dressings may be used as a part of your treatment. These stitches will either dissolve on their own or be removed at your post-operative appointment.
Medications: Begin taking your pain medication when you start to feel any tingling sensation or discomfort. Pain medication should be taken with food. Take all medications as instructed.
Eating: You are encouraged to eat regular meals starting with soft foods. Suggestions for softer foods include: milk shakes (no straws), instant breakfasts, oatmeal, yogurt, pudding, mashed potatoes, jello, ice cream, pasta, or soups (served lukewarm). Drinking more fluids can aid in your recovery. You can return to your normal diet when it is comfortable. Avoid food with small seeds (like berries) and any spicy foods for 2 weeks after surgery. Avoid using a straw for 1 week.
Ice Packs & Heat: Ice packs are used to reduce swelling. Ice packs should be used immediately after surgery and for the first 2-3 days post-op, applying for 20 minutes on then 20 minutes off. Use moist heat after, until swelling is gone. Avoid laying down flat, it increases swelling.
Activity: Avoid excessive physical exertion for 7 days after your surgery. If you are participating in sports, you should refrain from doing so for at least 1 week. It is best to confirm with our office before beginning your normal physical routine.
Smoking: DO NOT SMOKE for at least 72 hours after surgery. Smoking within the first week of surgery can result in painful surgical complications and delay healing.
Post IV Anesthesia Instructions:
A residual effect of having an I.V. Anesthetic can last for 6-12 hours and sometimes longer. During this time, your reflex time and judgment can be altered. Please refrain from operating an automobile or heavy machinery for at least 24 hours after your surgery. For nausea or vomiting, anti-nausea tablets are provided and can be taken every 8 hours.
After a few days you should start feeling better and can resume your normal activities.
If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for more than 3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately at Concord Office Phone Number 925-827-0202.