Care of Mouth After Extraction

1. BITE ON GAUZE FOR ONE HOUR.
If the bleeding continues, bite on a fresh piece of gauze for an additional fifteen minutes. Repeat if necessary. A certain amount of bleeding is to be expected following oral surgery.

2. DO NOT RINSE MOUTH TODAY WITH WARM WATER.
Tomorrow rinse mouth gently every 3 to 4 hours (especially after meals) using one-quarter teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water. Continue rinses for several days.

3. BLEEDING.
Following extractions, some bleeding is to be expected. If persistent bleeding occurs, rinse with ice water. Place gauze pads over bleeding area and bite down firmly for one-half hour. Repeat if necessary. A moist tea bag can be used instead of gauze.

4. SWELLING.
Ice bag or chopped ice wrapped in a towel should be applied to operated area one-half hour on and one-half hour off for 4-5 hours, to prevent swelling, if necessary.

5. PAIN.
For mild to average pain use any over the counter medication you like.

6. FOOD.
Light diet is advisable during the first 24 hours. Soft cool foods only. (Room temperature is fine).

7. BONY EDGES.
Small sharp bone fragments may work up through the gums during healing. These are not roots; if annoying return to this office for their simple removal.

8. DO NOT SMOKE TODAY.
DO NOT: suck, use straws, or attempt to spit too frequently.

9. IF SUTURES HAVE BEEN USED;
Return to the office as requested to have the stitches taken out.

10. KEEP YOUR MOUTH CLEAN BY NORMAL BRUSHING OF THE TEETH.
Rinse very gently with a small amount of cool water to get rid of the foam of toothpaste. Avoid the extraction site with your toothbrush.