After Tooth Extraction
Home Instructions After the Removal of a Single Tooth
Gauze/Bleeding
After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. Bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes immediately 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 to slow the flow of blood.
ORAL CARE
After the blood clot forms it is important to not disturb or dislodge the clot. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, smoke, drink alcohol or brush teeth next to the extraction site for 72 hours. These activities may dislodge or dissolve the clot and hinder the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours, as this increases blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the extraction site.
swelling
After the tooth is extracted you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling apply an ice bag, or a plastic bag or towel filled with ice, on the cheek in the area of surgery. Apply the ice , 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off for the 1st 24 hours. Swelling typically peaks around 48 hours after surgery and begins to subside thereafter.Take pain medications as prescribed.
no smoking
Cigarettes and vaping contain carbon monoxide and nicotine which are both toxic to healing. Smoking and vaping will harm the healing process and lead to healing complications.
sutures
If any are placed during your surgery, they will dissolve in 3-5 days, If they come out or dissolve early, that is fine. If they are non-dissolvable sutures, we will have you return in 3 weeks unless you are instructed differently.
discomfort
Use pain medication as directed. Call our office if the medication doesn’t seem to be working. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone. Drink lots of fluids and eat nutritious, soft food on the day of the extraction. You can eat normally as soon as you are comfortable.
Diet
Proper dietary intake is important for good healing. You may eat anything soft by chewing away from the surgical sites. A high calorie, high protein intake is very important. Hard foods or foods with husks, such as nuts and popcorn, should be avoided for a week as they can become lodged in the surgical site(s). Our staff can provide suggested diet instructions. Drink plenty of fluids. Drink from a glass and do not use straws. The sucking motion can cause more bleeding by dislodging the blood clot. Nourishment should be taken regularly. Your food intake will be limited for the first few days. You should compensate for this by increasing your fluid intake. At least 5-6 glasses of liquid should be taken daily. Try not to miss any meals. You will feel better, have more strength, less discomfort and heal faster if you continue to eat. You can start to progress your diet as tolerated.
brushing/Hygiene
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 fine and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately at Racine Office Phone Number 262-634-4646.