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 24 hours. Excessive bleeding which results in your mouth filling rapidly with blood can frequently be controlled by biting with pressure on a gauze pad placed directly on the bleeding wound for 45 minutes. If bleeding continues please call for further instructions.

Swelling

Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling, apply an ice bag or a plastic bag or towel filled with ice cubes on the cheek in the area of surgery. Apply the ice continuously as much as possible for the first 36-48 hours.

Pain

For moderate pain, Ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) 600mg may be taken every 8 hours as needed. As well 1 tablet of Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol may be taken every 6 hours as needed. Pediatric patients can take the over-the-counter Children’s Tylenol or Children’s Motrin using the recommended dosage printed on the label of the medication.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or food. Soft food and liquids should be eaten on the day of surgery.

Keep the Mouth Clean

Mouth cleanliness is essential to good healing. Peridex rinses should be used beginining the night of the surgery. The day after surgery, you may also rinse with warm salt water rinses (teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) at least 4-5 times a day, especially after meals. Brushing your teeth and the healing abutments is no problem. Be gentle initially with brushing the surgical areas

REMEMBER: A clean wound heals better and faster.

Activity

Keep physical activities to a minimum immediately following surgery. If you are considering exercise, throbbing or bleeding may occur. If this occurs, you should discontinue exercising.