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Post Op Care
for Extractions
Bleeding
⦁ Some blood in the oral cavity is normal and to be expected
⦁ Bleeding should be controlled by placing a firm gauze pack directly over the site and biting gently with constant pressure
⦁ You may change the gauze every 30 - 60 minutes as needed
⦁ If the gauze is only spotted with blood you may discontinue use
Brushing/Rinsing
⦁ Brush away from surgery site; you can choose not to brush and rinse the day of surgery
⦁ As the area heals, you may begin gently cleaning near the site
⦁ Avoid excess spitting for the first several days
⦁ Begin swishes with water, salt water, or the prescribed rinse the day after surgery
⦁ Continue to rinse the sockets by swishing twice daily for 2-3 weeks, or until the sockets are closed
Ice/Heat
⦁ If needed, apply ice packs to the side of the face for 20-30 minutes per hour on the day of surgery
⦁ Apply heat packs 2-3 days after the date of surgery to help with soreness and stiffness
Swelling/Stiffness
⦁ Swelling usually peaks 2-3 days after surgery; If you notice the swelling to be increasing rapidly or appears abnormal, please call the office or surgeon
⦁ Stiffness and limited opening of the mouth is normal; if there is no improvement or it is increasing, please call the office or surgeon
Pain Control
⦁ Take medication as prescribed by the surgeon; taking it with food may help to avoid an upset stomach
⦁ Ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve are recommended as the main medication for pain and swelling relief for the first 2-4 days
WARNING: Some antibiotics may interfere with oral birth control pills. Please exercise appropriate precautions and inform your surgeon of any concerns.
Diet
⦁ A liquid to soft diet is recommended the day of surgery
⦁ Chew away from surgical site(s) and avoid hard and crunchy foods over the first two weeks
⦁ Straws are not to be used until 7 days after surgery
Activity
⦁ Rest with head elevated the day of surgery
⦁ Slowly begin advancing activity as tolerated
For any questions and/or concerns, please call 604-244-5988 (phones are answered Monday - Saturday 9:00 am - 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm)
DENTAL EMERGENCIES ONLY: 604 307 5242