Dental Extractions Aftercare

Bite on gauze for 1-1/2 hours to protect the blood clot. If bleeding continues, bite on extra gauze provided for at least one hour. If bleeding still continues, moisten one tea bag and place on area of extraction and bite on for one more hour. If bleeding persists, call the office for additional instructions.
Don’t rinse or spit out the remainder of the day following the extraction.
Do not smoke, use a straw or suck on mints or candy for the remainder of the day. Do not pick at the surgical area.
Take prescribed medication as directed. If needed to help alleviate discomfort, take 3-4 Ibuprofen, Advil or Nuprin every 4-6 hours. (Do not take on an empty stomach)
To reduce swelling, alternate ice and heat (10 minutes with ice then 10 minutes with heat per hour) for the first 24 hours. If needed, heat can be continued (10 minutes per hour) following the first 24 hours.
Be cautious not to bite or chew on your tongue or lip before the anesthetic wears off.

