After Tooth Extraction
Home Instructions After the Removal of a Single Tooth
After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. Bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes immediately after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times to staunch the flow of blood.
After the blood clot forms it is important to not disturb or dislodge the clot. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, smoke, drink alcohol or brush teeth next to the extraction site for 72 hours. These activities may dislodge or dissolve the clot and hinder the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours, as this increases blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the extraction site.
After the tooth is extracted you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum. Take pain medications as prescribed. The swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.
For moderate pain, one or two tablets of Tylenol may be taken or 2-3 tablets of Ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil) every 6 hours for pain. Each Ibuprofen tablet over the counter is 200mg and Tylenol is 500mg. Do not take more than 3000mg of Tylenol or 2400mg of Ibuprofen in an 24h period. Consult our practice for individuals under 18.
For severe pain, the prescribed medications can be taken simultaneously. Occasionally, narcotic pain pills can also be prescribed. Dr. Prousi and Dr. McKinlay will discuss how they should be taken with over-the-counter medications. Do not take any of the above medication if you are allergic to them, or have been instructed by your doctor not to take it. Do not drive an automobile or work around machinery for 6 hours after taking narcotic medication. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Pain or discomfort following surgery should subside more and more every day. If pain persists, it may require attention and you should call the office.
Use pain medication as directed. Call our office if the medication doesn’t seem to be working. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time. Drink lots of fluids and eat nutritious, soft food on the day of the extraction. You can eat normally as soon as you are comfortable.
It is important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours. This should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least once a day. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.
After a few days you should feel fine and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately at Prousi Oral & Facial Surgery, LLC office Phone Number 609-526-8650.
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