After Tooth Extraction
Oral Surgeon Johns Creek, GA. Essential care instructions to promote rapid clot formation, prevent dry socket, and ensure comfortable healing.
Blood Clot Formation & Bleeding Control
After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. Bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes immediately after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times to stop the bleeding.
Protecting The Blood Clot (First 72 Hours)
After the blood clot forms it is important to not disturb or dislodge the clot.
- Do not rinse vigorously.
- Do not suck on straws.
- Do not smoke.
- Do not drink alcohol.
- Do not brush teeth next to the extraction site for 72 hours.
- Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours, as this increases blood pressure and may cause more bleeding and throbbing from the extraction site.
Pain & Swelling Management
After the tooth is extracted you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. If provided an ice pack to the face may be recommended to help minimize swelling. Take pain medications as prescribed. The swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.
Use pain medication as directed. Call our office if the medication doesn’t seem to be working. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time even if signs and symptoms of pain or infection are gone.
Diet & Resuming Oral Hygiene
Drink lots of fluids and eat nutritious, soft food on the day of the extraction. You can eat normally as soon as you are comfortable which is usually within 2-3 days.
It is important that you avoid brushing, rinsing, or spitting the day of the extraction. You may resume brushing and gentle rinsing the following day as instructed by the doctor. A clean oral cavity decreases discomfort and improves healing.
When To Call Our Office
After a few days you should feel fine and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately at (770) 764-0840.