Extractions
General Information:
*The primary goals of postoperative care after oral surgery are: control the bleeding, provide good nutrition, adequate pain management, excellent oral hygiene, and proper wound care. Good post-operative care is very important. The risk of infection, excessive pain, and swelling can be minimized if the instructions are followed carefully.
* Some bleeding, swelling, bruising, sensitivity, nausea, vomiting, and/or pain is to be expected. Your case is unique- no two mouths are completely alike. The effects of oral surgery can be quite variable so not all instructions will apply in all cases.
*After the first 72 hours following surgery, the pain and swelling should subside more and more each day. If your post-operative pain or swelling worsens or unusual symptoms occur please call the office. After hours, you can reach Dr. Parish at (916)337-4729 or Dr. Rick Jaeger at (916) 847-5124.
For the first three days:
* Biting (not chewing) on gauze is important for the first hour after leaving the office or any other time when there is bleeding or oozing. This direct, firm pressure will help to control any bleeding. Touching the wound area following surgery should be avoided.
* Do not spit or suck (straw, candy, etc.). Eat soft foods (milk shakes, mashed potatoes, soups, etc.) and plenty of liquids. Do not eat hot or spicy foods. Do not drink hot, carbonated, or alcoholic beverages.
* Avoid sneezing and coughing.
* Do not rinse vigorously with liquids or mouthwash. Do not brush or floss your teeth near the extraction sites.
* Do not smoke or use tobacco products. Tobacco products can inhibit the healing process.
* Only participate in calm activities and avoid physical exertion after your extractions. The best thing to do is rest as much as possible with your head slightly elevated.
* Use ice packs on your face near the extraction site(s) to minimize the amount of swelling. Use the ice pack alternating 20 minutes of use and 20 minutes of rest.
* Take 800mg of Ibuprofen (Motrin) and 500 mg of acetaminophen (Tylenol) together before the anesthetic wears off and then every 6 hours as needed to manage pain. Do not exceed 3200 mg of ibuprofen or 3000 mg of acetaminophen in a 24 hour period.
* Use of narcotic containing pain medication (Norco, Vicodin, etc.) often causes nausea and/or gastrointestinal distress. It is recommended to avoid taking these pain medications unless directed to by the doctor.
After the first three days:
*Begin to eat normally as soon as it’s comfortable.
* Resume normal brushing and flossing, taking care to be gentle around the extraction site(s) until they are no longer sore.
* Rinse your mouth as often as possible (3-5 times per day) with warm salt water. This aids gently in healing the gums and helps minimize infections an inflammation. Use the Monojet syringe (if recommended) to gently irrigate the extraction site(s) and keep them free of food and other debris.
* Applying warm, moist heat may help decrease any swelling or bruising.
* Continue to take 800 mg ibuprofen and 500 mg of acetaminophen as needed to manage pain.
If you have any other questions or concerns, please contact our office.
Parish Dental
(916)783-8153
info@parishdentalgb.com