Post-op: Extractions

• DO NOT SMOKE  for 72 hours following a surgery 

  • This can lead to dry sockets, which can be very painful​

• DO NOT DRINK THROUGH A STRAW

• DO NOT SPIT 

  • After brushing your teeth, lean over the sink and let the toothpaste run out of your mouth ​

• DO NOT RINSE MOUTH FOR 24 HOURS 

  • After 24 hours from surgery, you may rinse lightly with warm salt water. This will help keep any food particles from the extraction site. Add 1 tbsp of salt to a glass of warm water ​

• BLEEDING 

  • Following extractions, bleeding is normal. Keep biting pressure on gauze to help stop the bleeding. This may take 1 hour to a few hours. If persistent bleeding occurs continually filling the mouth with blood - CALL OUR OFFICE​

• PAIN

  • Place an ice pack (or ice in a towel) on area outside of face where the surgery took place. Repeat for 1 hour on and 1 hour off for up to 4 hours.​

• EATING 

  • Eat what foods are comfortable for you. You may find that softer foods are easier until more healing has occurred. DO NOT EAT until the anesthetic has worn off.

  • Do not drink hot, carbonated, or alcoholic beverages​

  • Avoid hot and spicy foods

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It is normal to feel some discomfort for a few days following an extraction.

Call us immediately if symptoms are severe or persistent 

• Heavy or increased bleeding​

• Pain or swelling that continues beyond 2-3 days 

• A bad taste or odor in the mouth 

• A reaction to medication