Extractions/Oral Surgery

The initial healing period after an extraction usually takes one to two weeks, and you’ll likely experience some swelling for the first 48 hours.

We used an anesthetic during your procedure to ensure your comfort. Your lips, teeth and tongue may be numb for several hours after your appointment.  Avoid chewing until the numbness wears off. We don’t want you unknowingly chewing on the inside of your cheek, lip or tongue. Some discomfort after the extraction is normal. An over-the counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, is usually sufficient.  If we gave you a prescription for a stronger pain medication, take as directed.  You can also decrease pain by applying an ice pack (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) for the first six hours following the extraction. Bags of frozen peas work particularly well.

Immediately following procedure- keep a steady pressure on the extraction site. Gently remove the compress after 30 minutes. If bleeding persists, place another clean gauze pad or wet tea bag on the site and keep steady pressure on the area for an additional hour.  Some oozing of blood may persist for up to 24 hours after surgery. After oozing has stopped, gently resume oral hygiene.

A blood clot will form on the extraction site and this clot is vital to the healing process. To keep this clot intact, keep fingers and tongue away from the surgical area.  Do not smoke, spit, blow your nose, sneeze, or rinse your mouth the day of surgery.  Drink plenty of fluids ( but do NOT use a straw). Relax as much as possible, avoid all strenuous activities for at least the first 24 hours.

Twenty four hours after surgery, rinse mouth gently with a salt water solution (one teaspoon salt in a cup of very warm water). Gently swish the solution around the affected area and spit carefully, so as not to dislodge the forming clot. You should do this 2 or 3 times daily for a week following the extraction. You can also resume your normal tooth brushing, careful to avoid the surgical site.

If antibiotics were prescribed, continue to take them as prescribed, even if all symptoms of infection are gone.

If sutures were placed, you will be instructed if they will dissolve on their own, or if you need to return to have them removed.

If you should experience excessive bleeding, pain, fever or difficulty opening your mouth, call our office immediately 973.598.9555