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Tooth Extractions

Post-Treatment Recommendations

Anesthesia:

  • You will continue to be under the effects of the anesthetic for several hours following your treatment. Depending on the type of anesthetic you had, the lower arch will most likely stay numb longer than the upper arch.

What you can expect:

  • Discomfort: Some discomfort is normal. Ibuprofen** or acetaminophen** may help with your discomfort.
  • Swelling: This is normal. To help prevent swelling, apply an ice pack to the affected area on and off for twenty minutes. Continue this for three hours.
  • Bleeding: Bleeding or “oozing” for the first 12-24 hours is to be expected. The gauze pack in your mouth should be left in place 30-45 minutes after you leave our office. Do not chew on the pack. If bleeding continues after the pack is removed, place some folded gauze directly on the site of the extractions. Hold this in place firmly for 30 minutes. Repeat as necessary.
  • A blood clot will form on the extraction site. This clot is vital to the healing process. Avoid touching the extraction site with your tongue or fingers. Do not drink liquids through a straw or create any type of suction that may remove the clot.

Things to do:

  • Diet: Once the numbness has worn off, you should eat because nourishment is important to the healing process. A soft or liquid diet may be necessary for the first day or two. This could include scrambled eggs, yogurt, soups, shakes, mashed potatoes and other soft, nutritious foods. Avoid cottage cheese, alcoholic beverages and hot or spicy foods or liquids. Begin eating solid foods as soon as you can chew comfortably. It is also important to keep hydrated so you must drink a lot of fluids (at least two quarts a day).
  • Mouth Rinse: Starting the next day, gently rinse with warm salt water (dissolve ½ teaspoon salt in an 8 oz. Glass of warm water). Gently swish the salt water around the affected area carefully. Rinse every three hours, as this will quicken the healing process and keep food particles out of the extraction area.

Things not to do:

  • Do not rinse your mouth the day of the surgery.
  • Do not apply heat to your face at any time. This will increase swelling.
  • Avoid any strenuous activity for at least 24 hours.
  • No smoking or drinking alcoholic beverages for one week following the procedure.

    The space where the tooth was removed will feel strange to you at first. Eventually new bone and tissue will grow into the gap left by the tooth.

Medications:

  • When taking any medications, be sure to read the label for directions, allergy alerts and warnings. Follow directions on the label or as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

When to call our office:

  • If you experience any discomfort that cannot be controlled with ibuprofen or acetaminophen or excessive swelling or bleeding.

Questions?

  • Should you have any questions, please call our office, Interlachen Dental Associates, at 952-920-9579.