Instructions Following a Tooth Removal

Do not disturb the wound: In doing so you may invite irritation, infection and bleeding.
Mouth wash: Avoid all rinsing for 12 hours after the operation. You may use warm salt water or mild antiseptic, if prescribed, 2 times a day. Rinse gently only. Do not rinse more than twice a day. This may destroy the blood clot and leave your wound open to bacteria.
Excessive bleeding: Roll a pad of clean gauze or linen cloth to cover the wound. Hold firmly on the wound by biting or pushing down with fingers for 30 minutes. You can also wet a tea bag, push out excess water and hold it on the wound for 30 minutes.
Pain: For severe pain directly after the procedure, use sedative capsules. If the wound becomes painful after a couple of days, contact us please. This may be the start of an infection.
Swelling: To prevent swelling, apply ice bag or towel wrung out in very cold water over affected area. Do this for at least 2 hours.
Bony edges: During the healing process, sharp fragments of bone may work their way up through the gum. If annoying, please return to our office for removal.
Sutures: Sutures will dissolve and come out at 7-10 days. If we have used black silk sutures, we will remove them after 10 days.
Report promptly: Please report any condition that appears unusual.