BLEEDING

A gauze pad has been placed on the extraction site to control bleeding. Pressure should be applied for at least one hour. The gauze should be replaced with black tea teabag if bleeding continues.

Do not drink carbonated beverages, lie down with the head lower than your shoulder, or physically exert yourself for the next 24 hours. These activities will prolong bleeding.

When use black tea teabags to stop the bleeding , soak it in the warm water quickly and then squeezing out the moisture before putting it on the bleeding site with the clean hands. Biting down on a moist teabag (regular black tea such as Red Rose) will help the bleeding. Change it every 30-45min.

No smoking or sucking through a straw for next 72 hours. This is critical in preventing the blood clot from dislodging from the surgical site.

SWELLING

You may notice some swelling following an extraction. This is to be expected. Apply an ice bag to the side of the face where the extraction was performed. Leave the ice bag on 30 minutes, then off 20 minutes. Keep repeating this cycle until the swelling subsides. This will relieve your discomfort.

RINSING

Do not rinse your mouth vigorously today. Tomorrow, rinse gently with a warm salt-water solution. You may do this every few hours and after each meal.

FOOD

During the first three days, a liquid diet is recommended (e.g. Boost and Ensure). Make sure to rinse your mouth carefully once you start taking the soft food.

ORAL HYGIENE

There is no need to break your regular routine of brushing and flossing. However, since the extraction site may be tender, be gentle in that area.

MEDICATIONS

Over-the-counter medication should relieve your discomfort. See the following for dosage:

Tylenol Extra Strength 2 tablets every 6 hours for 24 hours cycle combine with Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) 600mg (take 3 200mg tablets) every 6 hours for 24 hours cycle as well.

Do not take aspirin (ASA) as it will thin your blood and prolong bleeding. If necessary, a stronger medication will be prescribed.

DRY SOCKET

Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) is a painful infection that sometimes happens after teeth extraction due to the disturbance of blood clot at the site of the tooth extraction.
Symptoms, which begin 2-3 days following extractions include, persistent and increasing pain, swelling, and fever sometimes. If you experience any of these symptoms, call our office.

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