Post Extraction Instructions

You have just had a surgical procedure performed. In order to have successful healing, you should follow certain instructions to minimize potential complications.

HOW TO CONTROL BLEEDING

After the tooth is removed, the extraction site is packed with a gauze dressing. You should bite (not chew) on this gauze dressing for 30 minutes. Afterwards, you may remove the gauze and throw it away. Later in the day if you notice a lot of bleeding for the extraction site, repack the area with gauze, a clean piece of cloth, or a damp tea bag and bite for another 30 minutes. If you notice some oozing or slight bleeding, do not repack the area. Excessive repacking of the extraction site will promote further bleeding.

WHAT TO AVOID

You should not spit, suck through a straw or smoke for 48 hours. You should also limit your physical activity the day of surgery.

WHAT TO EAT

Stay away from hard, crusty, crunchy foods. Your diet should consist of a soft, bland diet.

WHAT TO DO ABOUT PAIN

After an extraction you can expect some discomfort. The discomfort is usually the worst the first 24 hours. After that the discomfort usually starts to subside. If you have been given a prescription for pain, take the medication as prescribed. If you did not receive a prescription, you can take an over-the-counter analgesic. It is recommended that you take the first dose of pain medication before the local anesthetic wears off.

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Hilliard Family Dentistry

3958 Leap Road, Suite #201
Hilliard, OH 43026

Phone: (614)876-8989
Fax: (614)850-9878

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