Post-Op Instructions Following Extractions

Bleeding

It is normal for minor bleeding to occur during the first 24 hours following dental surgery. Minor bleeding can be described as if the gauze is pink in color -or- if you experience a slight taste of blood in your mouth. If slightly heavier bleeding occurs (mouth filling up with blood or if gauze is a darker red in color):

• Place 2 pieces of gauze over the surgery site.
• Bite firmly on the gauze for at least 30 minutes.

1. Do NOT suck on the area where surgery occurred for the first 48 hours.
2. DO NOT drink through a straw for the first 48 hours.
3. DO NOT forcefully spit for the first 48 hours.

Rinsing

• Do NOT spit or rinse the surgical area for 24 hours after dental surgery. Starting 36 hours AFTER the surgery, you may start a gentle rinse with warm salt water. Remember, do NOT spit after rinsing – lean over the sink and let the rinse come out with the help of gravity.

Eating

• You should start with liquids & very soft foods for the first 24-48 hours following dental surgery.
• If the area feels better, you can move on to a normal diet.
  

Note: Be careful chewing on hard foods near the surgical area.

Pain & Swelling

• It is normal to experience some degree of swelling.
• Depending on the severity of the surgical procedure you may be asked to use ice on the area during the first 8-12 hours. (on for 15-20 minutes, off for 15-20 minutes)
• It is recommended that you take Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen to ease the pain.
  • 600mg Ibuprofen (Advil) every 6-8 hours (Max Recommended Dose is 3,000mg in 24 hours)
  • 500mg Acetaminophen (Tylenol) every 6-8 hours (Max Recommended Dose is 3,000mg in 24 hours)
  • Advil now makes a combination drug of Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen proven to be very effective.

If pain or bleeding persists, please contact us here at WMS Family Dentistry by calling our office at (440) 365-9872 or (440) 934-4485.