EXTRACTIONS

An extraction means to have a tooth removed, usually due to disease, trauma or crowding. If you need an extraction, the dentist will first numb the area to minimize any discomfort. After the extraction, the dentist will provide you with postoperative instructions that can also be found below for your convenience. 

PAIN MANAGEMENT
You may take 1-2 aspirin or Tylenol tablets every 3 hours to control pain, unless a prescription is specifically given to you at the time of surgery. Never take pain medication on an empty stomach.  If itching or a rash develops, or in the event of severe or persistent pain, please contact the doctor immediately.

BLEEDING
Biting pressure controls bleeding.  Normal oozing may occur for up to 24 hours or more following surgery.  In order to control bleeding, bite on several gauze pads placed over the tooth socket.  Replace them after eating and keep them in until bedtime.  If bleeding seems to be excessive, place a moistened tea bag over the bleeding area and bite down firmly for 1-2 hours until the bleeding stops. 

SWELLING
Swelling and/or bruising are common after surgery.  In order to keep swelling to a minimum, apply ice packs to the side of the face adjacent to the wound for 20 minutes out of the hour for 4 hours following surgery.   Also be sure to keep your head elevated at night. ​

MUSCLE SORENESS
Difficulty in opening the jaw is common, especially after third-molar (wisdom teeth) extractions.  Chewing gum at intervals will help with muscle soreness.  You may also apply moist heat to the side of the face adjacent to the wound no sooner than 36 hours after surgery.

ORAL CARE
Do not rinse or smoke for 24 hours after surgery.  The day after surgery, rinse with a glass of warm water mixed with one teaspoon of salt 5 times a day for 1 week.  Brush and floss as usual, but avoid the surgical sites.  The corners of your mouth may dry and crack, so keep them moist with Vaseline.

DIET
It is important to maintain good nutrition following surgery.  A soft diet is recommended for the days directly following surgery.  Drink plenty of fluids, but do not drink through a straw.  Eat whatever you would like, but stay away from hard or chewy foods.  Do not eat popcorn, nuts, chips or other small hard food for 6 weeks post surgery.

INFECTION
Infection following surgery is rare, but if swelling and discomfort worsens after the 4th day following surgery along with a foul taste, fever and difficulty swallowing, contact the office immediately.