Post Surgical (Extraction) Instructions
- DO NOT DISTURB THE WOUND: In doing so you may invite irritation, infection and/or bleeding. Be sure to chew on the opposite side for 24 hours and avoid anything sharp from entering the wound.
- DO NOT SMOKE FOR 12 HOURS: Smoking will promote bleeding and interfere with healing.
- BRUSHING: Do not brush your teeth for the first 8 hours after surgery. After, you may brush your teeth gently, but avoid the area of surgery.
- MOUTH WASH: Avoid rigourous rinsing for 24 hours after extraction. This is to ensure the formation of a healing blood clot which is essential to proper wound healing. Disturbance of this clot can lead to increased bleeding or the loss of the blood clot. If the clot is lost, a painful condition called dry socket may occur. You may use warm salt water or mild antiseptic gargle at the wound area after 12 hours..
- DO NOT SPIT OR SUCK THROUGH A STRAW: This will promote bleeding and may dislodge the blood clot causing a dry socket.
- BLEEDING: When you leave the office, you will be given verbal instructions regarding the control of postoperative bleeding. A rolled up gauze pad will be placed on the extraction site. It is normal for some blood to ooze from the area of surgery. If bleeding still continues, you may fold a tea bag in half and bite down on it. Tea contains Tannic Acid, a styptic, which may help to reduce the bleeding. Please be sure to inform us prior to your appointment if you have bleeding problems or are taking blood thinning medications such as Warfarin or Aspirin.
- PAIN: Some discomfort is normal after surgery. Analgesic tablets (i.e. Aspirin, Tylenol etc.) may be taken under your dentist's direction. Prescription medication, which may have been given to you, should also be taken as directed. If pain continues, call your dentist.
- SWELLING: This is normal following surgical procedures in the mouth. After 2-3 days, the swelling should begin to recede. If swelling persists or interferes with your ability to eat or talk or swallow, do not hesitate to call our office. To prevent swelling, apply an ice pack or a cold towel to the outside of your face in the area of the extraction during the first 6 hours. Apply alternately, 20 minutes on then 20 minutes off, for an hour or longer if necessary.
- DIFFICULTY IN OPENING MOUTH: You may have difficulty opening your mouth. This is because the jaw muscles become stiff from holding your mouth open during surgery. It usually lasts 3 to 4 days. Eat soft nutritious food like eggs, milk shakes, juices, soup (warm, not hot), pasta, rice idlis, and bananas. Do not force your mouth open.
- DIET: Liquid and soft foods are recommended for the first couple days (i.e.- milkshakes, yogurt, soups, mashed potatoes, bananas...) Also, please take all medications as directed, since they are prescribed to not only control discomfort, but to reduce swelling and infection. It is a very good idea to begin taking medications prior to the numbness wearing off to allow you a smooth transition and comfort. Eat normal regular meals as soon as you are able after surgery. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids.
REPORT ANY UNUSUAL OCCURRENCES If you have any questions regarding these directions, call / email us for clarification @ denta@eim.ae |
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