Post Operative Instructions

EXTRACTION

• A small amount of bleeding is to be expected following the procedure. Treat bleeding by placing a moist gauze pad directly over the bleeding socket and apply biting pressure for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues for longer than 2 hours, a moist tea bag (Lipton type) can be used for 30 minutes. If bleeding occurs avoid hot liquids, exercise, and elevate the head. If bleeding persists call Quest Dental Eugene Oregon at (541)688-7278 immediately.
• Avoid the following during the first 24 hours following surgery: smoking, drinking through a straw, strenuous exercise or lifting, rinsing your mouth vigorously, spitting or consuming alcohol. These activities can cause the protective blood clot to dislodge and lead to infection and increased pain. If after 2-3 days the pain increases, call the office, you may have developed a condition that will need to be treated.
• Use ice packs (externally) on the same side of the face as the operated area. Apply ice for the first 36 hours only. Apply ice for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off while you are awake.
• For mild discomfort use Tylenol or any similar medication; two tablets every 3-4 hours. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) 200mg can be taken 2-3 tablets every 3-4 hours.
• For severe pain use the prescription given to you. If the pain does not begin to subside in 2 days, or increases after 2 days, please call our office. If an antibiotic has been prescribed, finish your prescription regardless of your symptoms.
• Drink plenty of fluids. If many teeth have been extracted the blood lost at this time needs to be replaced.
• Do not rinse your mouth for the first post-operative day, or while there is bleeding. After the first day, use a warm salt water rinse every 4 hours and following meals to flush out particles of food and debris that may lodge in the operated area. (One half teaspoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water.).
• Restrict your diet to liquids and soft foods, which are comfortable for you to eat. As the wounds heal you will be able to advance your diet.
• The area operated on will swell, reaching a maximum in two days. Swelling and discoloration around the eye may occur. The application of a moist warm towel will help eliminate the discoloration quicker. The towel should be applied continuously for as long as tolerable beginning 36 hours after surgery (remember ice packs are used for the first 36 hours only)
• A sore throat may develop. The muscles of the throat are near the extraction sites. Swelling into the throat muscles can cause pain. This is normal and should subside in 2-3 days.
• If the corners of the mouth are stretched, they may dry out and crack. Your lips should be kept moist with an ointment like Vaseline. There may be a slight elevation of temperature for 24-48 hours. If temperature continues, notify the office.