After Tooth Extraction
After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. Bite with firm, steady pressure on a sterile gauze pad for 45 minutes. Repeat for an additional 30 minutes if necessary to control active bleeding. Oozing of blood can be expected for at least the first 24 hours following surgery. Remember that a lot of saliva and a little blood may look like a lot of bleeding.
After the blood clot forms it is important to not disturb or dislodge the clot. Do not spit, gargle, brush your teeth, or rinse your mouth out for at least 24 hours. Also avoid straws for the first week. Avoid smoking for as long as you can because it interferes with healing and may increase post operative pain. It has been our experience that smoking during the first 7 days after surgery increases post operative pain.
After the tooth is extracted you may experience some swelling and bruising of the jaw. This is a normal reaction of the tissue to surgery. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn should be applied to the area for 30 minutes. Remove for 30 minutes. Repeat this procedure for 1-2 days following surgery. This will also reduce discomfort. USE THE ICE, IT IS IMPORTANT!
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.
Cool liquids and soft foods are desirable for several days following surgery. Do not go without eating as medication taken on an empty stomach may cause nausea.
Beginning the day after surgery, use warm water rinses after meals and continue to rinse 4-6 times daily for approximately 1 week. This will help to keep area clean.
Please call the office at Kokomo Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Phone Number 765-453-5444 promptly in case of unusual developments.