Extractions are usually necessary due to decay, disease, trauma or intrusion on the adjacent teeth and it's important to follow the proper post operative instructions after treatment.
Post Operative Instructions after an Extraction:
-Avoid smoking, spitting or sucking for 48 hours.
-Avoid all rinsing or swishing for 24 hours after extraction. Rinsing can disturb the formation of a blood clot which is essential to proper healing. After 24 hours you may begin gently rinsing with saltwater. Avoid mouth rinses that contain alcohol (Listerine & Colgate).
-Stick with soft foods for the first two days. Return to normal regular meals as soon as you able. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol for 48 hours.
-After leaving the office, rest and avoid strenuous activities for the remainder of the day. Keeping your blood pressure lower will reduce bleeding and aid healing.
-When you leave the office, keep slight pressure on gauze for at least 30 minutes. After 30 minutes you may remove it. You may gently bite on another gauze for another 30 minutes if bleeding persists. If you experience excessive bleeding, please call our office.
-Some discomfort is normal after surgery. To minimize pain, take Tylenol, Advil, or a similar non-aspirin pain reliever every 3 to 4 hours until bedtime to maintain comfort. Don't exceed the dose on the label and taking medications with food will help reduce an upset stomach. Always follow the instructions given by your surgeon.
-If you were given an antibiotic prescription, take all of them as directed until finished. Ladies: some antibiotics can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills.
- Applying an ice pack to the face over the operated area will minimize swelling. Apply for 15 minutes and then remove for 15 minutes. Continue this for the 24 hours.
-If you experience pain, bleeding, a fever, swelling, or if the surgical site feels warm, please call your oral surgeon. You may need to return to their office for a post-up visit.
If you have questions or need to schedule an appointment,
please call 614-882-2249.
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