After you undergo oral surgery, it is important that you follow the post-surgery directions carefully. Initially, you will want to place a folded piece of gauze over the extraction site. Bite down firmly on the gauze, maintaining pressure for about half an hour. If the gauze is soaked, replace it..
You will need to avoid any suction, such as drinking through a straw, as a clot is going to form within the extraction site, and you don’t want to dislodge it. If you notice excessive bleeding, get in touch with us.
Protecting the Extraction Site
The rules for fast healing include:
- Do not smoke, drink liquids through a straw, or rinse your mouth, other than very gently, for 24 hours.
- No vigorous activities for 24 hours to help limit bleeding. Just rest and recuperate.
- Do not brush your teeth adjacent to the site the day of the extraction. Brush and floss your other teeth, but remember to rinse very gently.
- If your oral surgery involved stitches (sutures), we will schedule an appointment to remove them.
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You will be prescribed medication for pain if needed, as well as antibiotics. Take the medications as directed, and do not increase dosage. Call our office if you are experiencing more severe pain, excessive swelling, bleeding or develop a fever.
Swelling & Pain
Swelling is normal after an extraction. Apply cold compresses (ice or an ice pack, wrapped in a towel) on the first day only. Heat can be applied the following day if this aids in your comfort.
Diet
You will need to eat soft, healthy foods, and avoid any alcohol or hot drinks. Warm soups (not hot), pasta, smoothies, scrambled eggs, or other soft foods are best. You can begin eating solid foods the second or third day, depending upon how you are feeling. Do not chew on the side of your mouth where the extraction occurred. If you experience nausea or vomiting, call our office.
Rinsing
Salt water rinses help heal the site. Add a teaspoon of salt to eight ounces of warm water and gently rinse your mouth after eating to avoid any food particles lodging at the extraction site. Remember, gently!