Post-Op Instructions

We want to make sure you are taken care of before, during, and after any procedure.
Here is some helpful information after tooth extraction.

Do

N

Bite firmly on a DAMP gauze pad for 30-45 minutes

You may need to change the gauze several times

N

Limit yourself to calm activities for the first 24 hours

N

Use an ice bag to keep pain/swelling to a minimum

Swelling usually starts to go down after 48 hours

N

Use pain medication only as directed

Call the office if it does not seem to be working

N

Continue to take antibiotics for the indicated length of time (if they are prescribed), even if all symptoms & signs of infection are gone

N

Drink lots of fluid and eat only soft nutritious foods on the day of the extraction

You can begin eating normally the next day or as soon as it is comfortable

N

Gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater 3x per day 24 hours after the extraction

N

Gently rinse after meals

This helps keep food out of the extraction site

N

Resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours

This should include brushing your teeth and tongue at least 2x per day and flossing at least 1x per day

N

Call us right away if you have:

  • Heavy bleeding
  • Severe pain
  • Continued swelling after 2 or 3 days
  • Reaction to the medication

Don’t

M

Smoke

(1 week)

M

Suck through a straw

(1 week)

M

Rinse your mouth vigorously

(1 week)

M

Clean the teeth next to the extraction site

(24-48 hrs)

These activities can cause dry socket, dislodge the clot, and slow down healing

M

Use alcoholic beverages

M

Operate a motor vehicle or heavy machinery on pain medication

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