Tooth Extraction Instructions

Tooth Extraction & Removal of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Do not rinse or spit for 24 hours after surgery. Avoid putting fingers and tongue in the socket or surgical area. Use ice packs on surgical area (side of face) for the first 24 hours, apply ice 20 minutes on-10 minutes off. A Bag of frozen peas works well.

For mild discomfort, take Tylenol or Ibuprofen every 3 to 4 hours or use the prescriptions given to you. After the first postoperative day, use a warm salt water rinse following meals for the first week to flush out particles of food and debris, which may lodge in the surgical area. (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water).

Diet may consist of soft foods, which can be easily chewed and swallowed. No seeds, nuts, rice, popcorn, chips, etc. To control excessive bleeding, apply pressure to the surgical area using gauze or a moist tea bag. This will aid in clotting blood. This cavity will gradually fill in with new tissue. Small sharp bone fragments may workup through the gums during healing. These are not roots; if they annoy you, return to the office for their simple removal.

We strongly suggest, that you do not smoke for at least 5 days after surgery. Nicotine may break down the blood clot and cause a "dry-socket", which has an undesirable side effect.

The removal of impacted wisdom teeth and surgical extraction of teeth are quite different from the extraction of erupted teeth. The following conditions may occur, all of which are considered normal:

  1. The surgical area will swell.
  2. Swelling peaks on the 2nd or 3rd postoperative day.
  3. Trismus (stiffness) of the muscles may cause difficulty in opening your mouth for a period of days.
  4. You may have a slight earache.
  5. A sore throat may develop.
  6. Your other teeth may ache temporarily. This is referred pain and is a temporary condition.
  7. If the corners of the mouth are stretched out, they may dry and crack. Your lips should be kept moist with cream or ointment.
  8. There may be a slight elevation of temperature for 24 to 48 hours. If temperature continues, notify us.
  9. It is not unusual to develop bruising in the area of an extraction.

Please take all your prescriptions as directed.

Women please note: Some antibiotics may interfere with the effectiveness of your birth control pills. Please check with your pharmacist.

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