What to do After a Tooth Extraction?
Having a tooth extracted is not something any of us look forward to. But sometimes, for some teeth, it is the only option. In these instances, we take the utmost care in making you feel comfortable throughout the procedure. And after the tooth is out, special care needs to be taken to care for the area so it heals well.
Instructions to Patients following Oral Surgery
- Bite on gauze for ½ hour.
- Brush your teeth and tongue tonight, avoiding the affected area(s) for 48 hours.
- Do not rinse your mouth vigorously for 24 hours. Do not drink through a straw, spit or smoke for 24 hours.
- Starting tomorrow, rinse your mouth frequently with a solution of ½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Continue the rinses for a few days.
- If you have any discomfort, take whatever you normally take for a headache, as directed on the bottle. If necessary, a stronger medication will be prescribed for you.
- Diet – cold or lukewarm liquids may be taken for the first 4-6 hours. After this, eat soft foods. Avoid small foods like rice, quinoa or seeds that can get stuck in the surgical site.
- Bleeding – it is normal for the saliva in your mouth to be streaked with blood for a day or two. If frank bleeding is present, fold a sterile gauze into a firm wad and place it directly on the bleeding area. Maintain firm pressure by biting for 20 minutes. You can also bite on a damp tea bag.
- Swelling & Discolouration – it is to be expected in certain areas, usually reaching its maximum 2 days after surgery. It will disappear gradually and is no cause for concern. Ice pads should be applied for the first 4-6 hours only, alternating 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off.
- Place an old towel on your pillow tonight in case you drool some blood so that you don’t stain your pillow.
- Sutures (Stitches) – if required, they will dissolve on their own over the next week.
- Do not hesitate to call the office if you are in doubt or have any questions.