After Exposure of an Impacted Tooth

Do not disturb the wound. If surgical packing was placed, leave it alone. The pack helps to keep the tooth exposed. If it gets dislodged or falls out do not get alarmed.

Bleeding

Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for the first 24 hours. Excessive bleeding which results in your mouth filling rapidly with blood can frequently be controlled by direct pressure.  Bite on a moist gauze pad placed directly on the bleeding wound for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues please call for further instructions.

Swelling

Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling, apply an ice pack to the face over the surgical area.  Apply the ice 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off during the waking hours for the first 24 hours.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or hot food while you are numb.  Only foods that do not need to be chewed should be eaten on the day of surgery.  Return to a normal diet as soon as possible unless otherwise directed.

Pain

You should begin taking pain medication as soon as you get home following the surgery.  Do not wait for the pain to start before taking the medication.  Always eat prior to taking narcotic pain medications to minimize the possibility of nausia.

Oral Hygiene

No brushing of any kind should be done for the remainder of the day after surgery.  Clean your mouth thoroughly after each meal beginning the day after surgery. Brush your teeth as best you can. Rinse with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) six times a day. Continue this procedure until healing is complete.

REMEMBER: A clean wound heals better and faster.

Activity

Keep physical activities to a minimum for 2-3 days following surgery. If you are considering exercise, throbbing or bleeding may occur.