Following the exposure of an impacted tooth, it's vital to ensure proper healing. Please adhere to these guidelines to minimize discomfort and promote recovery.
Avoid disturbing the surgical site. If a surgical dressing was applied, leave it intact. This dressing aids in maintaining tooth exposure. If it becomes dislodged, contact our office for further instructions.
Some minor bleeding or redness in your saliva is normal for the initial 24 hours. For excessive bleeding (rapid filling of the mouth with blood), apply firm pressure by biting on a gauze pad placed directly over the bleeding site for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues, please call our office.
Post-surgical swelling is expected. To minimize swelling, apply an ice pack or a bag of ice wrapped in a towel to the cheek adjacent to the surgical area. Apply continuously for the first 36 hours.
Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding hot liquids and hard foods. Consume only soft foods and liquids on the day of surgery. Gradually return to your normal diet as tolerated, unless otherwise directed.
Begin taking pain medication as soon as the local anesthetic wears off. For moderate pain, take Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol every 3-4 hours, or Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) as an alternative. Over-the-counter Ibuprofen comes in 200mg tablets; take 2-3 tablets up to four times daily, not exceeding 3200mg per day for adults. For patients under 18, please consult our office. Do not combine these medications. For severe pain, take prescribed medication as directed. If you have allergies or contraindications to these medications, or if pain persists, please contact our office. Avoid driving, operating machinery, and consuming alcohol. Pain should gradually decrease each day; persistent pain may require further evaluation.
Maintaining oral cleanliness is crucial for healing. Begin cleaning your mouth thoroughly after each meal, starting the day after surgery. Brush your teeth gently, if possible. Rinse with warm salt water (one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) six times daily. Continue until healing is complete. Remember, a clean wound heals better and faster.
Limit physical activity immediately following surgery. Exercise may cause throbbing or bleeding; if this occurs, discontinue immediately. Be mindful that your reduced nutritional intake can weaken you. If you experience lightheadedness, stop exercising.
