POST-OPERATIVE CARE AFTER YOUR TOOTH EXTRACTION

Instructions for Home Care

It is important to take care of your surgery site.
Please follow these instructions:

1. Bite on gauze for 30 minutes (one-half hour) to stop any bleeding. If bleeding continues, place another gauze and continue to apply pressure.
   
   
2. For at least 24 hours do not:
• Smoke
• Drink through a straw
• Drink alcoholic beverages, carbonated beverages ("soda"), or hot liquids
• Blow your nose
• Spit excessively
• Exercise strenuously

  **Any of these things may cause the blood clot over the surgery site to dislodge from the socket, causing a "dry socket" and resulting in unnecessary pain. (Should this happen, call the office to see the doctor as soon as possible)**

3. Do maintain a soft diet for the remainder of the day-things like warm soup, ice cream, milk shakes (remember no straws), etc.
   
   
4. If you were given medication, take them according to the instructions. If you have pain medications at home, you may take them according to the instructions. Do not take excessive aspirin the first day, as this is a blood thinner.
   
   
5. If your pain, discomfort, or bleeding continues or worsens, call the office for a re-examination.
   
   
6. Tomorrow morning, start rinsing gently with warm salt water (1/4 teaspoon of salt to 1 cup of water) every four- (4) hours for two (2) days.
   
   
7. If any problems or questions do arise, please feel free to call the office at (781) 273-0225.