519.894.7080
smiles@riverdentistry.ca
1401 River Road East, Unit 6
Kitchener, ON N2A 3X9
Surgery Extractions

Post-op instructions following Surgery/Extraction(s)

  1. The nicer you are to yourself today, the more likely it is that you will be able to resume a normal life tomorrow.
  2. The initial healing period typically takes from 1-2 weeks, gum tissue takes about 3-4 weeks to heal, and complete healing of the bone can take about 6-8 months depending on your care of this area.
  3. Some discomfort, bleeding, and swelling should be expected in the next 24 hours as your mouth heals. Following these simple instructions will normally be all that is needed.
  4. Keep biting on the gauze for at least 20 minutes after being discharged from our office. Additional gauze will be given to you in case you need to apply pressure again to stop more bleeding.
  5. DO NOT smoke for 72 hours after an extraction.
  6. DO NOT spit for 72 hours; gently wipe away spit or blood with a paper towel. Keep your fingers and tongue away from the wound.
  7. DO NOT drink from a straw for 72 hours.
  8. DO NOT rinse (either with mouthrinse or salt water) for 72 hours.
  9. Wait until the anaesthesia wears off before eating anything solid.
  10. Avoid foods with small seeds for 3-4 days.
  11. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods for a few days. Return to a normal diet as tolerated.
  12. If you have been prescribed an antibiotic, take it on schedule until your prescription is finished.
  13. The pain medications prescribed or recommended can reduce discomfort, swelling and speed your recovery. If you are prescribed a narcotic pain medication, DO NOT drive or operate equipment under the influence of such medication.
  14. Avoid lifting heavy objects or strenuous exercise for 24 hours.
  15. For mild to moderate pain take ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed. For severe pain, contact the office for additional pain medication if indicated.
  16. If stitches were placed, they will dissolve on their own, usually 3-7 days after placement.
  17. If, after 48 hours, the pain gets worse, or you start bleeding again, call the office.
  18. If you feel the need to contact a dentist after hours, the emergency number is on our voice mail system.
 


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