POST-SURGICAL CARE

FOR DENTAL EXTRACTIONS

Gauze Pressure Pack: Immediately following the procedure, you will be given a gauze pressure pack. The gauze pack may be replaced every 30 minutes as needed. Discontinue once the bleeding subsides; this usually occurs in the first 1 to 2 hours. Do not disturb the wound with your finger, tongue, or by sucking on it.

Discomfort and Prescriptions: Minimal to moderate discomfort can be anticipated for the first few days and can be controlled by taking the medication prescribed by your Dentist as directed. Begin taking the medication before the local anesthetic wears off. Do not wait for discomfort to begin. If an antibiotic was prescribed, it should be taken until completely finished. If medication was not prescribed, use can use both Tylenol and Advil as directed.  

Swelling: Some swelling is not usual, and in most cases can be expected. It can peak between 1-3 days. To minimize swelling, you may apply ice to the outside of the face; "30 minutes on, 30 minutes off" for the first 24-48 hours. Do not apply heat. If there is extensive swelling, that makes swallowing or breathing difficult, or swelling that seems to be spreading down your neck, please contact the dental office. Discolouration or bruising of the skin can sometimes occur and disappear spontaneously in approximately one week.

Bleeding: Do not be alarmed if you notice blood in the saliva. If there is considerable bleeding, apply a gauze pad or a moist tea bag to the area for 30 to 60 minutes with firm, constant pressure. It will be helpful to keep your head elevated and avoid excessive exercise. If the bleeding does not subside, call the office for further instructions.

Hygiene: Mouth washed should NOT be used the day of the procedure. The day AFTER the procedure, rinse 3-4 times daily with Perio-rinse if provided, or a salt-water mixture, especially following meals. (1 teaspoon salt, 1 cup warm water.)

Diet, Alcohol, Smoking: Do not vigorously rinse, consume very hot liquids, or drink with a straw for the first 24 hours. A soft diet is usually recommended for the first few days. Alcohol may cause bleeding and should be avoided/minimized for the first week. Smoking may also affect the healing process and cause complications such as infection or dry socket. Smoking should be avoided for the first 3-4 days after the procedure.

Plaque Control: Brush your teeth as usual, avoiding the surgical area for the first week.

Dentures: If you have a denture that was immediately seated after extractions, the denture will act as a compression bandage. Leave the denture in for the first night only; unless it bothers you, then remove it.   

Activities: After leaving the office, go directly home and keep physical activity to a minimum for the remainder of the day. 

Miscellaneous: Pain in the ear, slight difficulty swallowing, difficulty in opening and closing the jaw, and some local skin discolouration in the neck are additional symptoms that occur with varying frequency. The findings are usually normal.