Tooth Extractions Post-Op Care
If you are preparing for an extraction at our Victoria clinic, please review the following post-op instructions. If you have any questions regarding your extraction procedure, or if you have undergone an extraction and have a question not covered in this information, please contact us.
Post-Op Extraction Surgery FAQs
It's important to always follow your specialist's instructions following a tooth extraction, that said, here are some basic instructions for caring for your mouth following surgery:
- Should I rinse my mouth out?
Do not rinse or spit for 24 hours after surgery, and be sure to keep fingers and tongue away from the surgical area.
Use the antimicrobial rinse provided by your periodontist, as directed twice a day. Use 15ml or 1/3 of the lid to soak the surgical site for 60 seconds
- How should I care for my oral hygiene?
Soak the wound twice a day with the antimicrobial rinse provided.
If you wish you may rinse your mouth gently with a solution of one-half teaspoonful of salt dissolved in a glass of water. Repeat after every meal or snack for seven days.
Rinsing is important because it removes food particles and debris from the socket area and thus helps prevent infection and promote healing.
Brush tongue with a dry toothbrush to keep bacteria growth down, but be careful not to touch the surgical site.
Resume your regular tooth brushing, but avoid disturbing the surgical site so as not to loosen or remove the blood clot. - Will icing my face help the healing process?
Use ice packs on side of the face receiving surgery for first 24 hours, apply ice 20 minutes on - 10 minutes off. Bags of frozen peas work well. Use moist heat after 24 hours.
- What should I take to help relieve pain?
For mild discomfort take Tylenol or Ibuprofen every four hours. For medium or severe pain use the prescription given to you.
- Should I use a straw?
Our periodontist recommends that you drink plenty of fluids, but do not use a straw.
- What should I eat following surgery?
Diet may consist of soft foods which can be easily chewed and swallowed. No seeds, nuts, rice, popcorn, etc.
Have your meals at the usual time. Eat soft, nutritious foods and drink plenty of liquids - with meals and in between. Have what you wish, but be careful not to disturb the surgical site. Add solid foods to your diet as soon as they are comfortable to chew.
- Will the site of my surgery bleed very much?
A certain amount of bleeding is to be expected following surgery. Bleeding is controlled by applying pressure to the surgical area using a small gauze for 10 to 15 minutes. This may have to be repeated several times. If bleeding persists, a moist teabag should be placed in the area of bleeding and bite firmly for one hour straight. This will aid in clotting blood. If bleeding still persists call our office.
- When can I return to smoking?
We suggest that you do not smoke for at least 5 days after surgery. Nicotine may break down the blood clot and cause delayed healing.
- Does your clinic have on-site parking?
Yes, we have free on-site parking available for all our patients. We are also easily accessible by public transit.
In Case of Problems
Our patients rarely experience any problems other than some minor healing pain which is easily managed by mild pain killers.
If you should have any problems such as excessive bleeding, pain, or difficulty in opening your mouth, contact us immediately for further instructions or additional treatment.
It is advisable to return for your post-surgical examination to make certain healing is progressing satisfactorily. A follow-up visit will be scheduled. In the meantime, maintain a healthful diet, observe rules for proper oral hygiene, and visit your dentist for regular checkups.