Post-Operative Care Instructions for Surgical Tooth Extractions
Undergoing a surgical extraction can feel overwhelming, but with proper post-operative care, your recovery can be smooth and complication-free. At Green Family Dental, we want to ensure you have all the information you need to take care of yourself following your procedure. Below, we’ve outlined detailed instructions to help you heal comfortably and efficiently.
At-Home Care Instructions for Extractions
To ensure proper healing after your extraction, follow these basic guidelines:
- DO NOT smoke or use smokeless tobacco for at least 48 hours. These can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications.
- DO NOT consume alcohol for at least 48 hours.
- AVOID spitting, rinsing, swishing, or sucking through a straw for at least 24 hours to protect the extraction site.
Taking extra care during the first few days is crucial to preventing discomfort or infection.
Operative Site Care
Caring for the surgical site is a key part of your recovery. Follow these steps for best results:
- Bite on the gauze provided by your doctor as instructed for 30 minutes after your procedure.
- If bleeding continues, replace the gauze and apply firm pressure. Consistent pressure is more effective than frequent changes.
- Slight bleeding or oozing is normal for the first day or two. Using an old pillowcase or placing a towel on your pillow can help avoid stains.
- On the day of the surgery, apply ice packs to the outside of your face (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) to reduce swelling.
- Expect normal swelling to peak within 48-72 hours post-surgery and then subside gradually.
If you notice unusual or persistent bleeding, please don’t hesitate to contact us immediately.
Physical Activity
Post-surgery, it’s important to give your body the time and rest it needs to heal:
- Go directly home after surgery and avoid using stairs or engaging in strenuous activities.
- Avoid sports, aerobics, or heavy lifting for at least three days.
- Stick to the same no spitting, rinsing, swishing, or straw-sucking rule for a full 24 hours.
By avoiding physical strain, you allow your body to focus on healing without extra stress.
Medications
Proper use of medications prescribed by your dentist can make your recovery smoother.
- Take medications as directed, and ensure any prescribed antibiotics are completed as instructed.
- Avoid driving or operating machinery when taking prescribed pain medication.
- Start using any prescribed mouth rinse 24 hours after surgery as directed.
If you experience any unusual reactions or side effects, reach out to us for guidance.
Dietary Recommendations
Your diet plays an important role in recovery. Here’s what we recommend:
- Stick to a soft diet for the first 24-48 hours. This includes foods such as mashed potatoes, soups, scrambled eggs, yogurt, pudding, and seedless smoothies.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, but avoid using straws.
- For the first week, avoid foods that may interfere with healing. This includes:
- Fruits with seeds
- Popcorn
- Chips and nuts
- Acidic foods (e.g., oranges, tomatoes)
- Carbonated beverages
Taking care of your diet will help protect your surgical site and promote faster healing.
Symptoms to Report to Your Doctor
It’s normal to experience some discomfort as part of the healing process, but contact us immediately if you notice any of the following:
- A temperature of 101.5°F or higher
- Pain that worsens or does not improve even with medication
- Bleeding or swelling beyond what was described by your dentist
Promptly addressing these symptoms can prevent more serious complications.
If you have any questions or notice symptoms that concern you, don’t hesitate to reach out to Green Family Dental. We’re here to make your healing process as smooth as possible! Contact us at (915) 778-4681 or visit our website at greenfamilydental.com for more information.
Your comfort and health are our top priorities, so don’t hesitate to call us if you need help with your recovery.
