After Tooth Extractions

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 the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 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, drink alcohol or brush teeth next to the extraction site for 72 hours. These activities will dislodge or dissolve the clot and retard the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours 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 or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum. Take pain medications as prescribed. The swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.

Use the pain medication as directed. 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 normally as soon as you are comfortable.

It is important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours. This should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least once 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 for 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately.

Sinus Precautions

Because of the close relationship between upper back teeth and the maxillary sinus, a communication between the sinus and mouth sometimes results from surgery. Certain precautions will assist healing and we ask that you faithfully follow these instructions.

Take prescriptions as directed
Do not spit for several days
Do not smoke for several days
Do not use a straw for several days
Do not forcefully blow your nose for at least two weeks, even though your sinus may feel “stuffy” or there may be some nasal drainage. A nasal or systemic decongestant may help prevent the “need” to blow your nose.
If you must sneeze, keep your mouth open
Eat only soft foods for several days, always trying to chew on the opposite side of your mouth
Do not rinse vigorously for several days. Gentle salt water rinses may be used
Slight bleeding from the nose is not uncommon for several days after surgery

Please keep our office advised of any changes in your condition, especially if drainage or pain increases. It is important that you keep all future appointments until this complication has resolved.

113 Water Street
Milford, MA 01757
phone 508 473-7900
fax 508 473-7914

172 Main Street
Northborough, MA 01532
phone 508 393-1223
fax 508 393-3895