After Extractions

The healing period may take 1-3 weeks for extractions. Normal conditions following surgery include some achiness, tenderness, muscle stiffness, facial bruising, and/or swelling. If you experience anything abnormal or have any questions, please call our office immediately at 714-771-7677

Bleeding

Some oozing or bleeding is normal for the first 24 hours after surgery. If there is active bleeding, place a folded gauze pad over the area and bite down firmly for about 20 minutes. Repeat if necessary.

Note: If active bleeding continues, please call our office immediately.

Swelling

For the first 24 hours, apply an ice bag to your face on the side of the surgery for 20 minutes on, then 20 minutes off. After the first 24 hours, apply warm compress (a warm damp towel or heat pad).

Note: Peak swelling and/or pain usually occurs within 48-72 hours.

Sutures

If sutures were placed, they will dissolve and fall out on their own within 5-10 days after surgery.

Hygiene

The day after surgery you will rinse your mouth after each meal for 3-7 days with warm salt water (1/2 tsp salt in a glass of warm water). Maintain oral hygiene by brushing teeth gently with a soft toothbrush.

Medications

Take prescription medications as directed. It is recommended that you take 1 pain pill following the surgery before the anesthetic wears off. If antibiotics are prescribed to you, be sure to take the medication as directed until it is ALL gone.

Note: If you have any unusual reactions to the medications, please call our office.

Diet

Drink nourishing liquids and eat soft solid foods such as soup, yogurt, ice cream, jell-o, mashed potatoes, pudding, etc. for at least the 3 days after surgery. You may return to your normal diet when your mouth is able to tolerate solid food.

Note: Do not use straws and no spitting for 2 days after surgery. This may dislodge the blood clot prematurely or cause bleeding.

Smoking

Avoid smoking for as long as possible after surgery. Smoking can impact the healing process.