After Exposure of an Impacted Tooth

Do not disturb the wound. If surgical packing was placed, leave it alone. The packing helps to keep the tooth exposed. If it gets dislodged or falls out, do not get alarmed. This can happen on occasion and is ok.

Bleeding

Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24 hours. Bleeding can frequently be controlled by biting with pressure on a gauze pad placed directly on the bleeding wound for 30 minutes.

Swelling

Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling apply an ice bag, a bag of frozen peas, or a plastic bag filled with ice cubes on your cheek near the area of surgery. Apply the ice one half hour on and one half hour off as much as possible for the first day.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or hard foods. Only consume soft food and cool liquids on the day of surgery.

Discomfort

A very good method to manage post-operative discomfort and inflammation involves alternating doses of ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol).  We recommend taking 400 mg of ibuprofen followed two hours later by 650 mg of acetaminophen, then another 400 mg of ibuprofen two hours later, and so  on.  An example of this would be:  400 mg of ibuprofen at 8:00 am, then 650 mg of acetaminophen at 10:00 am, 400 mg of ibuprofen at 12:00 noon, 650 mg of acetaminophen at 2:00, and so on.  If taking prescription medication for discomfort, the prescription pill would take the place of the Tylenol doses in the schedule.  Example: 400 mg ibuprofen at 8:00 am, prescription at 10:00, and so on.  DO NOT take acetaminophen if you are sensitive/allergic or have liver disease.  DO NOT take ibuprofen if you are taking blood thinners or an aspirin on a daily basis. DO NOT take ibuprofen if you are taking other anti-inflammatory drugs daily or are sensitive/allergic .  The maximum dose of ibuprofen is 2400 mg in a 24 hour period.  Do not take any medication if you have previously had and allergy to it.

Oral Hygiene

Oral cleanliness is essential to good healing. Clean your mouth thoroughly after each meal, beginning the day after surgery. Brush your teeth normally if possible. Rinse with warm water six times a day. Continue this procedure until healing is complete.

REMEMBER: A clean wound heals better and faster.

Activity

Keep physical activities to a minimum the day of surgery.  After that there is no restriction on your activity.