❖ 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 and keep anything sharp from entering the wound.

❖ DO NOT SMOKE or CONSUME ALCOHOL FOR 48 HOURS – They promote bleeding and interfere with healing.

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.

MOUTH WASH

– Avoid all rinsing for 24 hours after the extraction. You may use warm salt water (½ teaspoon salt) or mild antiseptic rinses after 24hr.

DO NOT SPIT OR SUCK THROUGH A STRAW OR TOUCH THE SOCKET WITH YOUR TONGUE – This will promote bleeding and may dislodge the blood clot causing a dry socket.

BLEEDING

– A rolled-up gauze pad will be placed on the extraction site and you will be asked to keep it there for 1 hr. It is normal for some blood to ooze from the area of surgery. We will also give you a package of gauze to take with you to use at home. 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 on it for about 10-20 minutes.

PAIN

– Some discomfort is normal after surgery. Analgesic tablets (i.e. Panadol, Ibuprofen) If pain continues, call our office.

SWELLING

(surgical extraction) – 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, 10 minutes on then 10 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 yoghurt may be the most comfortable for the first day. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids.

IN CASE OF PAIN/ SWELLING/ BAD TASTE PLEASE CALL OUR CLINIC