After Exposure of an Impacted Tooth

Do not disturb the wound. If surgical packing was placed, leave it alone. The packing helps to keep the tooth exposed. If it gets dislodged or falls out, do not get alarmed but please contact our office for instructions.

Bleeding

A certain amount of bleeding is to be expected following surgery. Slight bleeding, oozing or redness in the saliva is not uncommon up to 24 hours after your procedure. Bleeding can be controlled by biting with pressure on a gauze pad placed directly over the surgical site for 20-30 minutes. If the bleeding does not subside within a couple of hours, please call our office for further instructions.

Swelling

Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. 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 24-48 hours.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or hard foods. Only consume soft food and liquids on the day of surgery. Return to a normal diet as soon as possible unless otherwise directed.

Pain

You should begin taking pain medication as soon as you feel the local anesthetic wearing off. For mild to moderate pain, the medication of choice is an anti-inflammatory like Advil or Motrin (generic name is Ibuprofen). Take 2-3 tablets up to four times a day, not to exceed 3200mg daily for an adult. Consult our practice for individuals under 18. If you are not able to take an anti-inflammatory medication you can substitute Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol.  

For severe pain, the prescribed medication should be taken as directed. 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. Pain or discomfort following surgery should subside more and more every day. If pain persists, it may require attention and you should call the office.

Oral Hygiene

Oral cleanliness is essential to good healing. Clean your mouth thoroughly after each meal, beginning the day after surgery. Brush your teeth normally if possible. Rinse with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) 2-3 times a day. Continue this procedure until healing is complete.

REMEMBER: A clean wound heals better and faster.

Activity

Keep physical activities to a minimum immediately following surgery. If you exercise, throbbing or bleeding may occur. If this occurs, you should discontinue exercising. Be aware that your normal nourishment intake is reduced. Exercise may weaken you. If you get light headed, stop exercising.