Tooth Extraction Post-Op

Bleeding

After extractions, a small amount of bleeding is normal and can persist for several hours.
Place two damp gauze pieces over the extraction site to control bleeding and bite gently for 30-60 minutes, ensuring pressure. Although it is tempting to talk, especially after sedation, please try to limit the amount of mouth movement via talking directly after the procedure.
If bleeding persists, use gauze for another 30 minutes.
Pink or blood-tinged saliva for up to 24 hours is normal. A small amount of blood mixed with saliva can appear to be more blood than in reality.
Rest with your head elevated.

Inflammation

After a surgical procedure, the body's natural response is to experience inflammation as a part of the healing process. Swelling is often most noticeable the day after the procedure and reaches its peak within 2-3 days. While it is expected to decrease after this initial period, it may take a week or more to subside entirely depending on your case. Applying an ice pack to the affected area is recommended to minimize swelling. For the first 48 hours, use the ice pack on and off for 20 minutes, then switch to a warm compress after 48 hours.

Discomfort

Discomfort often accompanies an oral surgery procedure. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Ibuprofen are the first line for pain management after tooth extraction. Prescription pain medication can be necessary for specific situations.

If you are on Plavix or Coumadin, avoid Ibuprofen and Aspirin products. Your discomfort should diminish daily; if not, contact our office.

Dry Sockets

Dry sockets, or alveolar osteitis, occur when the blood clot at the extraction site dissolves prematurely, exposing the underlying bone. This can lead to intense pain and delayed healing but is not an infection.

To prevent dry sockets:

Follow post-operative care instructions from your oral surgeon, including avoiding smoking and using straws for at least a week
Avoid vigorous rinsing or touching the extraction site.
Take prescribed pain medication as directed.
Maintain good oral hygiene by gently brushing and rinsing with salt water.

Attend all follow-up appointments for monitoring and further guidance.

Suture Care

After a procedure involving sutures (stitches), properly caring for them at home is essential to promoting healing and preventing complications.

Here are some tips for caring for sutures at home:

The sutures are absorbable unless otherwise specified and will eventually fall out on their own.
Keep the area clean: Starting 24 hours after surgery, gently rinse your mouth with Peridex (chlorhexidine) or salt water. Avoid vigorous swishing to prevent disturbing the sutures.
Remember, you play a vital role in your recovery. Avoid touching the sutures: Refrain from touching or pulling at the sutures with your fingers, tongue, or any objects. This helps to prevent complications and ensures a smooth recovery
Follow dietary restrictions: Stick to soft, cold foods and avoid hot, spicy, or hard foods that can irritate or dislodge the sutures. It is also important to remember that you may be numb on both sides of your mouth following any oral surgical procedures.

If you notice excessive bleeding, severe pain, swelling, or signs of infection around the sutures, contact your oral surgeon promptly for further guidance and evaluation. Proper home care of sutures is crucial in ensuring a smooth recovery after oral surgery.

Numbness

Experiencing numbness after an oral surgery procedure is a common and typically temporary side effect caused by the dental anesthesia. The anesthesia used during your procedure is designed to block nerve signals, providing pain relief and comfort while the dentist works. As the anesthesia wears off, you may continue to feel numbness in the treated area for a few hours. This is normal and should gradually subside on its own.

Activity & Healing

Rest is advised for the initial 24 hours post-surgery, abstaining from physical exertion. After this period, gradually resume activity as comfortable. Returning to school or work is permissible, provided pain medication is not being taken.

Expect temporary bad breath, which will resolve with healing progression. Within 2-3 days, you may notice white, possibly hardened tissue at the surgical site, indicating routine healing. Complete recovery of the extraction area typically takes 6-8 weeks.