AFTER TOOTH EXTRACTION

After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. That’s why we ask you to bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times.

After the blood clot forms, it is important not to disturb or dislodge the clot as it aids healing. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, smoke, drink alcohol, or brush teeth immediately adjacent to the extraction site for 72 hours. These activities will dislodge or dissolve the clot and slow the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours as this will increase blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the extraction site.

After a tooth extraction, you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack applied to the area over the first 24 hours will keep swelling to a minimum. The swelling usually subsides after 72 hours.

If bone grafting was performed at the time of tooth extraction(s), try to avoid examining the area with your tongue. A membrane will typically be secured over the bone graft, and it is important not to dislodge it. If you feel small bone graft particles in your mouth in the week after surgery, this is not a cause for alarm. A few particles may work their way out from under the membrane and are lost into the mouth. THIS DOES NOT MEAN THE GRAFT ISN'T GOING TO WORK. It is a normal and expected event. The success of the graft is not determined by those few particles.

Use the pain medication as directed. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time, even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone. Discontinue antibiotics in the event of an allergic reaction or persistent diarrhea. Please contact the office if you have any questions or concerns with prescribed medications.

Drink lots of fluid and eat soft foods on the day of the extraction(s). You can resume a normal diet as soon as you are comfortable.

It is important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours. This should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least once a day. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.

After a few days you should feel better and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 3-4 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office at 850-477-8482 and we will provide further instructions.