DO NOT RINSE MOUTH TODAY

Tomorrow rinse mouth gently every 3 to 4 hours (especially after meals) using ¼ teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water. Continue rinses for several days.

BLEEDING

Following extractions some bleeding is to be expected. If persistent bleeding occurs, place gauze pads over bleeding area and bite down firmly for 2 hours. Do NOT repeatedly replace gauze or bleeding will increase.

SWELLING

Ice bag or ice wrapped in a towel should be applied to swelling ½ hour on and ½ hour off for 4 to 5 hours. Sit upright until no swelling.

PAIN

For mild to average pain use any over the counter, non-aspirin type medication (Two Advil and Two Tylenol (4) pills every 4 hours is very effective).

FOOD:

A light diet is advisable during the first 24 hours. Eat on the other side.

BONY EDGES

Small sharp bone fragments may work up through the gums during healing. Should this occur, return to this office immediately.

SMOKING & SUCKING

No smoking, spitting, drinking from straws or other type of sucking activity is advised for 7 days. This is necessary to protect the Blood Clot that forms in the gum and prevents DRY SOCKET. A dry socket will cause intense, throbbing pain that can only be cured with time and may require another visit to the doctor for packing with a medicated material. This may result in additional charges

INFECTION OF THE SITE

In rare instances an infection can develop in or around the extraction site which may need to be managed in the dental office. If you have signs of fever, pain and/or significant swelling several days after the extraction was done, please call the office immediately.