Dental Extractions

Care After Minor Oral Surgery
Sometimes, after minor oral surgery, you may have pain, bleeding and swelling. This section offers some advice on dealing with these problems. Your dentist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon will give you advice too.

Post Op Instructions:

	Bite on gauze for 30 minutes.
	Keep fingers and tongue away from the operated area.
	Do not rinse your mouth for 24 hours, although it is permissible to drink cool or lukewarm liquids. Smoking should be avoided for 12 hours.
	Starting tomorrow, rinse your mouth frequently with a solution of teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Continue the rinses for a few days.
	If discomfort persists please contact our dental office.
	Diet - Cold or lukewarm liquids may be taken for the first 4-6 hours. After this any soft food is permissible.
	Bleeding - It is normal for the saliva to be streaked with blood for a day. If frank bleeding is present, fold sterile gauze into a firm wad and place it directly on the bleeding area. Maintain firm pressure by biting for 20 minutes. The gauze may be substituted by a warm, soaked tea bag. The tannic acid in the tea has a clotting effect.
	Swelling and Discomfort - It is to be expected in certain areas, usually reaching its maximum two days after surgery. It will disappear gradually and is no cause for concern. If desired, ice pads may be applied for the first 4-6 hours only, alternating for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off.
	Sutures (stitches) - If required, are removed without discomfort in about 5 days. An appointment will be made for you.
	Do not hesitate to call the office if in doubt.