Surgical Instructions

After Tooth Extraction

After tooth extraction, it's important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. That's why we ask you to bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes after your surgery appointment. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place a gauze pad or moist tea bag over the bleeding area and bite firmly for another 45 minutes. You may have to do this several times.

After the blood clot forms, it is important not to disturb or dislodge the clot as it aids healing. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, smoke, or brush your teeth next to the extraction site for 24 hours. These activities will dislodge or dissolve the clot and retard the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for 48 hours after your procedure as this will increase blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the extraction site.

After the tooth is extracted, you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum. Use the ice pack as directed by Drs. Fraser and Michaels.  The swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.

Use the pain medication as directed by Drs. Fraser and Michaels. Call the office if the medication doesn't seem to be working. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time, even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone. Drink lots of fluid and eat nutritious soft food on the day of the extraction. You can eat a normal diet as soon as you feel comfortable.

It is important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours. This should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least once or twice a day. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.

After a few days you will feel fine and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling after 3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our Lancaster office at (740) 654-6628 or our Gahanna office at (614) 471-6600.