Important: Follow any specific instructions from your surgeon. Call us at (317) 876-1095 with any concerns.
Immediately After Surgery
- Bite firmly on the gauze pad placed over your extraction site for 30–45 minutes.
- Do not disturb the clot that forms in the socket — it is essential for healing.
- Avoid rinsing, spitting, or using a straw for 24 hours.
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products for at least 72 hours.
Bleeding
- Oozing is normal for the first few hours. Replace gauze as needed.
- If active bleeding resumes, apply fresh gauze with firm pressure for 30 minutes.
- Biting on a moist, plain black tea bag can help stop persistent bleeding.
Dry Socket Prevention
- Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) occurs when the blood clot is dislodged or dissolves prematurely.
- Avoid suction (straws, smoking, vigorous rinsing) for 72 hours.
- Signs of dry socket: dull, throbbing pain 2–4 days after surgery, bad taste or smell. Call us immediately if this occurs.
Swelling & Pain
- Apply ice to your face (20 min on, 20 min off) for the first 24 hours.
- Take pain medications as prescribed or directed.
- Pain and swelling typically peak at 48–72 hours and then gradually improve.
Diet & Oral Hygiene
- Eat soft foods for several days. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods.
- Stay well hydrated.
- Resume gentle tooth brushing the day after surgery, avoiding the extraction site.
- After 24 hours, rinse gently with warm salt water after meals.
Contact Us If You Notice:
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Severe or worsening pain after 3 days
- Signs of infection (fever, pus, swelling)
- Persistent numbness or tingling