Extractions

***Do not eat for at least 2 hours or until the anesthetic has worn off.
 

Bleeding Control

1. After an extraction, keep a moist gauze pack in place over the extraction site with constant, firm biting pressure for 15-30 minutes to prevent excessive bleeding and promote clot formation.
2. Avoid forceful rinsing or activities that could apply a suction action to the blood clot such as smoking or using a straw.
3. Should slight bleeding continue, discard the old compress and place a piece of fresh moist gauze over the bleeding area, applying pressure for 20 minutes. You may use a moistened tea bag as an alternative. This may be repeated 3 or 4 times.
4. It is also helpful to lie down, with the head raised on several pillows and remain calm. Apply an ice bag or cold compress to the cheek on that side. Do not take tea, coffee or other stimulants.
5. Some oozing and discoloration of saliva is normal.
6. If these measures do not succeed, call our office.                     804-784-4150 

Oral Hygiene: Do not use a mouth rinse for 12 hours. After 12 hours, a warm salt water mouth rinse (1/2 tsp salt to an 8oz. glass of water) will aid in the healing. You can do this every 3-4 hours, especially after meals. Continue regular brushing and flossing being extra gentle near the extraction site.
 
Swelling: Following an extraction, some swelling or bruising may occur. A cold, moist compress or an ice bag applied to the cheek (10 minutes on /5 minutes off for the first day) will keep the swelling to a minimum. Bruising may appear first as black and blue marks, but after the second or third day it may discolor the face yellow, black or blue. This will gradually disappear in 7-10 days.
 
Medications: Ibuprofen is recommended to relieve your discomfort along with an antibiotic if there is an infection. Stronger medications may be prescribed if needed. Be sure to use all medications as directed.
 
Diet: A liquid or soft diet is recommended the first day. Avoid alcoholic, carbonated or hot beverages. Chewing should be done away from the extraction site. As healing progresses, follow your natural inclination as to diet, but for your comfort, consider taking soft food. Drink plenty of fluids. Well balanced meals are important to your recovery.
 
Sutures: Occasionally stitches are placed. Although you may feel them with your tongue, it is best to leave them alone. These should be removed by Dr. Glick in 7-10 days.
 
Please call our office if you are experiencing prolonged bleeding, increasing soreness or swelling which does not respond to the medication you are taking or any other problem.