Post Surgical Instructions- Extractions

What to Expect When the Freezing Wears Off?

You may experience some mild discomfort and swelling. This is normal. Before the anaesthetic wears off, you could take analgesic pills (pain killers) as I have recommended to you. These medications work best if you take them at regular intervals during the first two days, when most of the discomfort is expected. Afterwards, I recommend that you take the analgesic medication only if you feel uncomfortable.

Should I Rinse My Mouth?

You should not rinse for at least 24 hours. After that you should rinse gently as to not dislodge the clot or encourage bleeding.

What May I Eat?

You should keep to a soft, bland diet for the first 24 hours and avoid very hot or very cold foods or drinks. You should avoid drinking through a straw for 24-48hrs as it could cause the clot to be removed. You should select foods high in protein and vitamins as these will help the healing process.

Will I Have Bleeding in My Mouth Following the Surgery?

It is not unusual to have some minor bleeding in your mouth for 24 hours following surgery. Blood mixes with saliva so it may appear to be more blood than it really is. You should not be concerned and avoid rinsing and spitting.

If there are large blood clots visible or considerable bleeding after the surgery was done, you should do the following:
• Take a piece of moist sterile gauze or regular wet tea bag and form it into the shape of a “U”, holding it between your thumb and index fingers. Apply the gauze over both sides of the teeth involved and maintain gentle pressure for twenty minutes.
• If the bleeding persists, contact me immediately.
• Under no circumstances should you rinse, as rinsing will promote further bleeding.

Will I have Swelling?

Some degree of swelling is normal after any surgical procedure. The swelling normally peaks 48 hours after the surgery and starts subsiding thereafter. To minimize the degree of swelling, apply cold compress to the surgical area, 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off, for the first two days. If the swelling and/or pain are excessive please contact me, so I can make sure you have not developed an infection.

May I Smoke?

Smoking should be avoided as it may increase the risk of complications during wound healing. Please avoid smoking for at least 24 hours.

May I Brush My Teeth?

Carefully brush your teeth as usual, avoid the surgical site until your first post-operative appointment, since brushing could dislodge the pack and interfere with the initial steps of healing.

What About Exercise?

Avoid exercise for at least 48 hours. If possible, after the surgery go directly home and relax as much as possible. Vigorous exercise such as tennis or aerobics should be avoided for the first week.