Patient Instructions

• BLEEDING: Following extractions some bleeding is expected. If persistent bleeding occurs, place a wet gauze pad over the bleeding area and bite down firmly for 1/2 hour. For impactions and some extractions, you may need to continue biting for several hours.

Please do not use a straw for drinking. They cause excess bleeding!

• SWELLING: Ice bag or chopped ice wrapped in a towel should be applied to the side of the face, today and tomorrow. Place ice on your face for 15 minutes, then off for 5 minutes. Repeat for a few hours after the procedure.

• BONY EDGES: Bone fragments may work up through the gums during healing. If they become annoying, please return to the office. Removal of such fragments is a simple procedure.

• DIET: Light or liquid diet is advised for 24 hours. Advance your diet to regular as tolerated.

• ORAL HYGIENE: Tonight after brushing, rinse mouth with blue rinse. Continue rinses daily after brushing in the a.m. and p.m. until finished.

Tomorrow, rinse mouth gently with salt water 3-4 times during the day (especially after meals) using 1/4 teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water. Continue rinses for at least one week. Continue to brush teeth with special care near the surgical site.

• ACTIVITY: Do not do any excess physical activity for 24 hours. Then increase to normal as tolerated (impacted will require longer rest period).

• NO SMOKING.

• Please call our office at any time if there are questions or concerns.