BLEEDING

Place gauze pads directly over the extraction site and bite to apply pressure for one half hour.  This is the best way to stop bleeding from a tooth socket and should be repeated as often as needed.  Rest quietly with head elevated until bleeding stops.

INFECTION

The best way to prevent infection is to keep your mouth clean.  This should be done with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste after meals and at bedtime.  Should bleeding resume, repeat the use of the gauze method as mentioned above.

PAIN

Pain may be most severe the first day, and then diminish each day thereafter.  Renewed pain three to four days later, severe enough to interrupt sleep, may indicate a healing problem.  You should call first and return to our office as soon as possible.  Should you have a fever, (temperature of 100 degrees or above) beyond the first day, or have any difficulty you consider abnormal, contact our office.

SWELLING

Swelling should it occur, is not uncommon, and, may become progressively worse the first three days, and may not subside completely for several days.

EATING

The day of your surgery, keep your diet soft.  Starting the day after your surgery, eat as well as you can, even if it means relying entirely on liquids.

MEDICATIONS

If medications have been ordered for you, take them as directed on the label, with a full glass of liquid.  If pain or nausea persists, contact our office.

DO'S

You may use an ice bag to reduce discomfort, swelling and bleeding during the first twelve hours.  You may rinse your mouth with warm salt water or mouthwash, beginning the day after surgery and until you heal.

DONT'S

Avoid vigorous rinsing, sucking on the wound, frequent spitting, smoking, and exercising until bleeding has stopped.  If you received a general anesthetic, do not drive or return to work or school the day of your surgery.  Avoid any strenuous or hazardous activities.