After Tooth Extraction

After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. That’s why we ask you to bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes 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.

After the blood clot forms, it is important not to disturb or dislodge the clot as it aids healing. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, smoke, drink alcohol or brush teeth next to the extraction site for 72 hours. These activities will dislodge or dissolve the clot and retard the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours Keep physical activities to a minimum immediately following surgery. Be aware that your normal
nourishment intake is reduced. Exercise may weaken you. If you get light
headed, stop exercising. Heavy exercise is to be avoided until you
feel 100%. It is best to wait several days to exercise vigorously, as this may cause throbbing and bleeding from the extraction site. Ask your doctor for instructions if you have
questions.

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. You can begin taking pain medication as soon as you feel the local anesthetic wearing off. For moderate pain, 1 or 2 Tylenol or Extra Strength. Tylenol may be taken every 3-4 hours. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) may be taken with food instead of Tylenol. Ibuprofen bought over the counter comes in 200 mg tablets: 2-3 tablets may be taken every 3-4 hours as needed for pain. Medication for severe pain if prescribed for you should be taken as directed. Do not take any of the above medication if you are allergic, or have been instructed by your doctor not to take them. Do not take any medication if you are allergic, or have been instructed by your doctor not to take it.

Use the pain medication as directed. Call the office if the medication doesn’t seem to be working. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time, even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone. Drink lots of fluid and eat nutritious soft food on the day of the extraction. You can eat normally as soon as the area is healed. Avoid the surgical area when chewing, and always try to keep the areas clean.

It is important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours. This should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day. Brush gently in surgerized areas. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.

After a few days you will feel fine and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, uncomfortable sharp bony areas, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately at Sunbury Office Phone Number 570-286-1631, Lewisburg Office Phone Number 570-524-2828 and Bloomsburg Office Phone Number 570-784-4321.