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 one hour after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, please place a moistened tea bag directly over the bleeding site 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. Please do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, drink alcohol or brush teeth next to the extraction site for 24 hours. Please do not smoke for one week after your surgery.  These activities may dislodge or dissolve the clot and retard the healing process. Please limit vigorous exercise for at least 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 help reduce the swelling. Please take your pain relieving medications as prescribed. The swelling usually starts to subside after 72 hours.

Please use the pain medication as directed. If the medication doesn’t seem to be working, please call our office. If antibiotics are prescribed, please continue to take them until they are all gone, even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone. Please 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 3-4 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately at Hopkinsville Office Phone Number 270-885-0165.