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Post-Operative Instructions:
Extractions

After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. That’s why we ask you to bite on a gauze pad for 30 minutes after the appointment. If heavy bleeding persists, bite on another DAMP piece of gauze for 30 minutes again. Oozing and pink tinged saliva is normal for 24–48 hours after tooth removal and does not require intervention.

After the blood clot forms, it is important not to disturb or dislodge the clot as it aids healing. To ensure that the clot stays in place, we advise the following for a minimum of 1 week after extractions:

  • No vigorous rinsing—soft gentle rinses only
  • No using straws or small opening bottles of any kind
  • No smoking and or vaping, as well as chewing tobacco
  • No alcohol usage or carbonated beverage of any kind
  • No strenuous activity that causes a rise in heart rate.

Doing any of the above can cause the clot to dislodge or dissolve prematurely, having a negative impact on healing.

After the tooth is extracted, you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack or unopened bag of frozen vegetables applied to the area for the first 24 hours will keep swelling to a minimum. The swelling usually subsides within the 48–72-hour range. Take over-the-counter pain medications as prescribed, as needed.

Drink lots of fluids, sticking to only cold beverages on the first day. You will want to stick to a very soft food diet for the first 5–7 days after surgery, ensuring that you are avoiding anything coming into contact with the extraction sites. After the initial 5–7 days you can slowly ease your way back into a normal diet. Trusting your body to let you know if you aren’t ready to resume normal habits.

It is important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours. This should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day. This will speed up healing and help keep your mouth clean and fresh.

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