After Tooth Extraction

Home Instructions After the Removal of a Single Tooth

BLEEDING

After tooth extraction, it is 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. It is rare that bleeding will continue after this but you may have to do this several times to staunch the flow of blood. If bleeding continues to pool in your mouth please call the office for further instructions.

After the blood clot forms it is important to not disturb or dislodge the clot. Do not rinse vigorously, smoke, or drink alcohol for 72 hours and do not use a straw for at least one week. following the procedure. These activities may dislodge or dissolve the clot and hinder the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for 7-10 days, 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. To minimize swelling apply an ice pack or a plastic bag filled with ice cubes on your cheek near the area of surgery. Apply the ice as much as possible for the first 36 hours, rotating on for 20 minutes and then off for 20 minutes. Swelling and pain can be at peak 2-3 days following surgery but then should subside more and more every day.

PAIN

As soon as you get something to eat begin using pain medication as directed. For moderate pain you may not need the prescribed medication. We recommend taking Tylenol and Ibuprofen at the same time to start and then alternating between the two. 1-2 tablets of Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol may be taken every 6 hours. Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) bought over the counter comes in 200 mg tablets: 3-4 tablets may be taken every 6 hours, not to exceed 3200 mg daily for an adult. Consult our practice or your pharmacy for individuals under 18.

Do not take any of the above medication if you are allergic to them, or have been instructed by your doctor not to take it. Do not drive an automobile or work around machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Call our office if the medication does not 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.

DIET

Drink lots of fluids and avoid hot liquids. Eat nutritious, soft food on the day of the extraction and avoid hard foods. You can eat normally as soon as you are comfortable unless otherwise directed.

ORAL 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, we recommend after every meal. You can also use oral mouth rinse or warm salt water rinses. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.

REMEMBER: A clean wound heals better and faster.

ACTIVITY

After 3 – 5 days you should feel fine and can resume your normal activities, still limit any physical activity that raises your blood pressure to at least one week. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately at CoMax Phone Number 719-434-1584.