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04

Sep

Post Operative Instructions for Extractions

Post-Operative Instructions for Extractions

At HQ Temple Dentist, we make recovery simple with clear post operative instructions for extractions. Follow our tips to heal faster, avoid complications, and stay comfortable. For questions, call us anytime at (254) 773-1672.

After tooth extraction, a blood clot forms in the empty space. It is essential to keep this blood clot in place, as it will help prevent inflammation and infection after the surgery.

Post Operative Instructions for Extractions (After 2 Days )


  • • Don’t rinse your mouth too hard, as it can wash away the healing blood clot
  • • It is better to avoid using straws as suction can disturb healing.
  • • Avoid smoke for at least the first 48 hours.
  • • Avoid touching the extraction site with either your fingers or tongue, as this can disrupt the healing clot.
Tooth Extraction Recovery How Long Does It Take for the Hole to Close

Bleeding


It is entirely normal to experience slight bleeding from the socket for up to 1 day. Here are some instructions that can minimise bleeding:

  • • Gently bite the damp gauze pad for 1 hour after the extraction.
  • • If it keeps bleeding, use another gauze after every 20 minutes as it required.
  • •Use a pillow to elevate your head.
    • • Avoid heavy activity for the first 2-3 days of tooth extraction.

Swelling


It's normal to swell after tooth extraction; it can last for 2-3 days after surgery before it starts to heal. Here are some tips to help reduce swelling.

  • • To reduce swelling, put an ice pack on your face near the extraction area.

  • •Put the ice pack for 20 minutes, and then rest for 20 minutes, and then put it back on. Continue the process throughout the day.

  • • Stop using ice packs after 1 day.

Feeling Uncomfortable


It is normal to feel somewhat uncomfortable as the anaesthetic effect wears off. Taking your medication on time will help you manage pain and feel a bit better.

  • • It is not recommended to drive a car, motorcycle, or use heavy equipment while taking medications, as it can cause drowsiness.

Infection


Although it is not typically the case, an infection can develop in some instances after a tooth extraction. If you have a higher risk of developing a disease, we will provide medications to help prevent it.

  • • Women who are taking birth control pills are advised to use other methods of contraception, as these antibiotics can decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills.

  • • It is recommended to take all medicines as prescribed and the complete course.

Stitches


Depending upon the type of surgery, your stitches (sutures) might be placed to help the area heal. If you have stitches, the dentist will inform you accordingly after the extraction.

  • • Stitches that dissolve on their own should fall in 2-7 days.

  • • The non-dissolvable ones need to be removed after 7 to 10 days of extraction.

More Recommendations


If you had general anaesthesia or IV sedation for your tooth extraction surgery. It is highly recommended to rest at home for the first 24 hours and keep the activities to a minimum.

  • • Do not drive a car, ride a motorcycle or use any heavy machinery until you are fully alert.

  • • Avoid drinking alcohol, even beer

  • • Avoid drinking alcohol, even beer

  • • Rest as much as possible with your head raised above.

Brushing


You can start brushing either electric or manual after the extraction, but be gentle, with more focus on the surgical area. And avoid spitting.

Diet Guide


Start with liquid only, as it can include apple juice or any juice you like. If you feel better, you can have a milkshake or a smoothie. But keep your diet soft during the first week of surgery. Soft food can include mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, yoghurt, applesauce, oatmeal, soft rice, custard, and pudding.

Avoid eating popcorn, peanuts, or chips for at least 2 weeks after surgery, as they can become lodged in the wound and cause infection. It is highly advisable to listen to the doctor's instructions as doing anything on your own can cause problems like delayed healing or causing disease.

Avoid rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours. After 1 day, rinse gently with warm water or mouthwash (if the doctor prescribes it to you).

Alarming Signs


  • • Uncontrollable bleeding even after firmly biting the gauze for one hour.

  • • Pain is not getting better after taking the prescribed medicine. If you are not feeling better, don't take another or higher doses on your own.

  • • Ongoing nausea or vomiting.

  • • Swelling that gets worse after 3 days, or swelling that makes it hard to swallow.

  • • An awful taste or discharge from the surgical area that does not improve with rinsing or brushing.

  • • Fever higher than 101°F.

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