After Exposure of an Impacted Tooth

Do not disturb the wound. If surgical packing was placed, leave it alone. The pack helps to keep the tooth exposed. If it gets dislodged or falls out do not get alarmed.

Bleeding

Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for for a few days after surgery.  Excessive bleeding which results in your mouth filling rapidly with blood can frequently be controlled by biting with pressure on a gauze pad placed directly on the bleeding wound for 60 minutes. If bleeding continues please call for further instructions.

Swelling

Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling, apply the ice pack or a plastic bag or towel filled with ice cubes or frozen peas or corn on the cheek in the area of surgery.  Apply the ice continuously as much as possible for the first 24-48 hours.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or food while still numb. Soft food and liquids should be eaten on the day of surgery. Return to a normal diet as soon as possible unless otherwise directed.

Pain

You should begin taking pain medication as soon as you are able after leaving the office. For moderate pain, Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) may be taken.  Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) bought over the counter comes in 200mg tablets:  2-3 tablets may be taken every 4-6 hours as needed for pain. Tylenol may be taken instead of Ibuprophen. 1 or 2 Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol may be taken every four hours.  For severe pain, take two to three Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) with the prescribed pain medication as directed.

Oral Hygiene

Mouth cleanliness is essential to good healing. Clean your mouth thoroughly after each meal beginning the day after surgery. Brush your teeth as best you can. Rinse with warm  water six times a day, starting the day after surgery. Continue this procedure until healing is complete.

REMEMBER: A clean wound heals better and faster.

Activity

Keep physical activities to a minimum immediately following surgery. If you are considering exercise, throbbing or bleeding may occur. If this occurs, you should discontinue exercising. Be aware that your normal nourishment intake is reduced. Exercise may weaken you. If you get light headed, stop exercising.