Tooth Extractions
Post-op Instructions
- Keep gauze in your mouth with firm pressure for 30 minutes.
- If bleeding should start, place a fresh piece of gauze over the bleeding area. Bite on gauze with firm, steady pressure for 1 hour.
- Do not use any mouthwash products. After the first 24 hours, rinse your mouth with warm salt water (one teaspoon of salt in an eight ounce glass of warm water), at least 4 or 5 times a day to help keep the extraction clean.
- Be sure to drink plenty of fluids.
- Do not eat foods such as nuts, potato chips, or spicy foods.
- Do not drink any alcoholic beverages or smoke for at least a 24-hour period.
- Do not drink with a straw for at least 24 hours.
- Do not spit; spitting will cause more bleeding. Excess saliva and a little bit of blood may look like a lot of bleeding from your extraction site.
- It is advised that you return home and rest after having one or more teeth extracted.
- You may experience black and blue marks after your extraction. Do not be alarmed; this bruising is normal following the procedure and should disappear within a few days.
- During your healing process, you may have small, sharp bone fragments that may loosen and come through your gum. These are not roots. If these bone fragments are bothersome, call the office and arrange for them to be removed.
Post-Op Instructions
