Alliancefamilydental.net

ALLIANCE FAMILY DENTAL 
IAN GASKIN D.D.S   * DAVID MILLHOUSE D.D.S 
716‐282‐4641 
You've just had a tooth extracted, or your dentist has recommended that a tooth be extracted, the following information will help you get through the first few days after your extraction. Should anything occur that does not seem normal, do not hesitate to call our office. POSTOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS
DO NOT DISTURB THE WOUND: In doing so you may invite irritation, infection and/or bleeding. Be sure to chew on the opposite side
for 24 hours.
MOUTH WASH: Avoid all rinsing for 48 hours after extraction. This is to insure the formation of a healing blood clot which is essential
to proper wound healing. Disturbance of this clot can lead to increased bleeding or the loss of the blood clot. If the clot is lost, a
painful condition called dry socket may occur. You may use warm salt water or mild antiseptic rinses after 48 hours.
DO NOT SMOKE FOR 24 HOURS: Smoking wil promote bleeding and interfere with healing and may lead to a dry socket.
BRUSHING: Do not brush your teeth for the first 8 hours after surgery. After, you may brush your teeth gently, but avoid the
area of surgery.
DRINKING THROUGH A STRAW : This will promote bleeding and may dislodge the blood clot causing a dry socket.
BLEEDING: When you leave the office, you will be given verbal instructions regarding the control of postoperative bleeding. A
rolled up gauze pad will be placed on the extraction site and you wil be asked to change this dressing every 30-45 minutes
depending on the amount of bleeding that is occurring. It is normal for some blood to ooze from the area of surgery. We wil also give you a package of gauze to take with you to use at home if the bleeding should continue. Should you need to use the gauze at home, remember to roll it into a ball large enough to cover the wound. Hold firmly in place, by biting or with finger pressure, for about 20-30 minutes. If bleeding still continues, you may fold a tea bag in half and bite down on it. Tea contains Tannic Acid, a styptic, which may help to reduce the bleeding. PAIN: Some discomfort is normal after surgery. Analgesic tablets (1 OR 2 ) Motrin or Tylenol may be taken under your dentist's
direction.
SWELLING: Swelling and bruising is normal after extractions. To prevent swelling, apply an ice pack or a cold towel to the outside
of your face in the area of the extraction during the first 12 hours. Apply alternately, 20 minutes on then 20 minutes off, for an hour
or longer if necessary.
DIET: Eat normal regular meals as soon as you are able after surgery. Cold, soft food such as ice cream or yogurt may be the most
comfortable for the first day. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids.
BONE CHIPS: During healing you may notice smal bony fragments working their way through the gums, this is normal
and can easily be removed.
ALLIANCE FAMILY DENTAL 
IAN GASKIN D.D.S   * DAVID MILLHOUSE D.D.S 
716‐282‐4641 

Source: http://www.alliancefamilydental.net/files/52947.pdf