INSTRUCTIONS FOLLOWING EXTRACTIONS OR ORAL SURGERY

 

Surgery of the mouth is similar to other parts of the body and requires careful attention to post operative instructions:

DO NOT DISTURB THE SURGICAL AREA.  MAINTAIN FIRM PRESSURE ON THE GAUZE PACK FOR 1 HOUR, THEN REMOVE.

SWELLING--use an ice pack 30 minutes on, then 30 minutes off for the first 6 hours following the surgery to help minimize the amount of swelling.  The maximum amount of swelling may occur 36-48 hours after surgery.

PAIN--Always eat before taking pain medication.  Pain medication should be taken before anesthesia wears off.  Thereafter take medication as directed.

BLEEDING--DO NOT RINSE your mouth the day of surgery.  The day following surgery, you may rinse with warm salt water and resume brushing your teeth.  Be careful to avoid brushing the surgical area.  Some bleeding is normal for 24-48  hours after all procedures.  However, EXCESSIVE bleeding should be controlled by: placing a sterile gauze, clean cloth pack, or warm moist tea bag over the would; bite firmly for 60 minutes; stay off your feet and keep your head elevated.  If bleeding does not subside, call for further instructions.

DIET--Nothing hot or spicy (warm, cool, cold only).  Follow your own inclinations.  Soft foods and liquids are recommended.

ACTIVITIES--DO NOT SMOKE for at least 24-48 hours following the procedure.  No rinsing, spitting, or using straws today.  Keep physical activity down to a minimum.

PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CALL US AT ANY TIME.