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 24 hours. 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 an ice bag or a plastic bag or towel filled with ice cubes on the cheek in the area of surgery. Apply the ice 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off as much as possible for the first 36 hours.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or food. 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 before you feel the local anesthetic wearing off.  For mild to moderate pain, take  over-the-counter pain medication as needed.  For severe pain, the prescribed medication should be taken as directed (do not combine with Tylenol).  Do not take any of these medications if you are allergic or have been instructed by a physician not to take them. Do not drive or operate mechanical equipment after taking pain medication.  Due to current federal law, most narcotic prescriptions can no longer be called in on weekends or evenings.

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 salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) six times a day. Continue this procedure until healing is complete.

REMEMBER: A clean wound heals better and faster.

Antibiotic Therapy

Antibiotic therapy may decrease oral contraceptive effectiveness.  those taking birth control pills should consult their physician.

For Your Own Safety

Do not drive, operate machinery, or sign any important or legal documents for 24 hours following intravenous anesthesia.  Do not drink alcoholic beverages.

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.