Extraction

For the first 24 hours following an extraction:

• No smoking
• No use of straws
• No carbonated beverages
• No hot liquids (lukewarm is ok)
• No milk or dairy products if you tend to have an easily upset stomach

Do not rinse your mouth after your surgery. The following day, rinse your mouth gently every three to four hours, especially after meals, using one-quarter teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Continue rinses for several days.

Bleeding

Following extractions, some bleeding is to be expected. When you leave the office, continue to bite down on moist gauze pads for 30 minutes. Change the pads every 30 - 45 minutes, as needed to control bleeding. If persistent bleeding continues, don't hesitate to call Dr. Pointer.

Swelling

A bag of chopped ice, wrapped in a towel, should be applied to the operated area - one half hour on, and one half hour off, for four or five hours after your procedure. Some swelling is normal. If you experience extreme or prolonged swelling, please contact the office.

Pain

For mild to average pain, use any non-aspirin medication, i.e. Tylenol. If a pain medication has been prescribed for you, please take it according to prescribed directions.

Diet

Maintain an adequate diet by eating soft foods for the first 24 hours after your extraction. Avoid hard, crisp foods such as chips. Examples of soft foods are spaghetti, scrambled eggs, custards, Jell-o, baked potatoes, and soup.

Bony Edges

Small, sharp bone fragments may work up through the gums during healing. These are not roots. If this is annoying for you, return to the office for their simple removal.

If any unusual symptoms occur, call our Ft. Worth dental office immediately at 817 737-2531. The proper care following oral surgical procedures will hasten recovery and prevent complications.

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