SURGICAL INSTRUCTIONS

After Wisdom Tooth Removal

  1. Do not rinse or spit for 24 hours after surgery. This can damage the blood clot.
  2. Keep fingers and tongue away from the socket or surgical area.
  3. A certain of amount of bleeding is to be expected. Bleeding is controlled by applying pressure to the surgical area using a small rolled gauze for one hour. After that time remove the gauze and then you may eat or drink. If bleeding persists in significant amounts, apply gauze pressure for 45 minutes. Repeat if necessary. A Moist tea bag can be substituted for the gauze for persistent bleeding. If bleeding cannot be controlled call our office.
  4. Use ice packs on the surgical area (side of face) for at least the first 24 hours. Apply ice 20 minutes on – 10 minutes off. Ziplock bags work well. It is O.K. to use ice after 24 hours - it may make you more comfortable but has little therapeutic benefit.
  5. Keep your head elevated (recliner) for 24 hours if you can.
  6. Drink plenty of fluids but do not use a straw.
  7. After 24 hours, use warm salt-water rinses following meals to flush out food particles that may lodge in the surgical area. (1 teaspoon salt in a glass of warm water).
  8. Begin gently brushing you teeth the day after surgery.
  9. For mild pain take Tylenol (Acetaminophen) or Advil (Ibuprophen, Motrin.)
    1. Do not exceed 4 grams of Tylenol in a 24 hour period. Stop taking Tylenol if you take your prescription medication unless you know it does not contain Tylenol.
    2. Advil (200mg) take 2-3 every 6 hours or Motrin as prescribed. This can generally be taken in addition to the prescription medications.
  10. For severe pain use the medication prescribed to you. Try to have food on your stomach first.
  11. Warm, moist heat to the outside of your face after the first few days will promote healing and help jaw stiffness.
  12. Diet may consist of soft foods which require minimal chewing.
  13. Stand up carefully after surgery. Anesthetics, dehydration, hunger and medications may make you dizzy. Sit for one minute before standing.
  14. We suggest that you do not smoke for at least 5 days after surgery. Nicotine may break down the blood clot and cause a “dry-socket.”