Oral Surgery Instructions
Bleeding – Normal oozing may occur for up to 24hours or more following surgery and is controlled by firm biting pressure on gauze pads placed over the tooth socket. Keep gauze packs in mouth for 1-2hours or until bleeding stops. If bleeding is brisk and fills the mouth quickly, call the number listed below.
Swelling – Swelling and sometimes bruising is common after surgery. The maximum swelling, pain and jaw stiffness normally occurs 2-3days after surgery. Apply ice packs fifteen minutes on and then fifteen minutes off until bedtime the day of surgery and the day after. This will keep the swelling to a minimum. Also, keep your head elevated until bedtime.
Pain – The greatest amount of discomfort is in the first 6-8 hours after surgery. Never take pain medication on an empty stomach. Take one pain tablet immediately after you receive your prescription along with a glass of fluids then follow directions for further medication. If itching or a rash develops, stop taking all medications and call the number listed below immediately. If a dull pain along with an earache starts on the 3rd or 4th day call for an appointment immediately.
Muscle Soreness – Difficulty in opening the jaws is common after any extraction but particularly 2nd or 3rd molar extractions. Anti-inflammatory medication, such as Advil, helps greatly. Rest is ideal for any muscle soreness and a soft diet will decrease problems. Moist heat on the area can be used after 36 hours.
Mouth Care – No rinsing or smoking for 24 hours following surgery. The day after surgery, rinse with a glass of warm water mixed with one teaspoon of salt five times a day for at least a week. You should brush and floss as usual, avoiding surgical sites. The corners of your mouth may dry and crack. Keep them moist with a petroleum based gel.
Diet – It is important to maintain good nutrition following surgery. Eat a lukewarm, soft diet the day of surgery. Do not drink through a straw. Eat whatever you can the day after surgery. Drink as much fluids as you can for the next few days.
Infection – If swelling or discomfort worsens after the 4th day following surgery along with a foul taste, fever, or difficulty swallowing, contact the number listed below immediately.
IF FOR ANY REASON YOU ARE CONCERNED ABOUT YOUR CONDITION, NOTIFY YOUR DENTIST.
Dr. Louise Hill & Associates
www.drlouisehill.com
705-326-7874