Useful Advice following Extraction

A clean and healthy mouth aids healing. Avoid smoking as this delays healing.

The following steps will help prevent bleeding and relieve soreness:

Rest:
Rest for a few hours following treatment and avoid strenuous exercise.

Swelling:
Some swelling is not unusual but it will reduce after 2-3 days. It may be reduced by ice or cold compresses held over the area.

Rinsing:
Do not rinse for at least 24 hours. For the following 2 days rinse your mouth gently after meals and before retiring using a mouthwash made by dissolving 2 teaspoon of salt in a mug of boiled water. Allow to cool enough so as not to burn your mouth. Hold this in your mouth for 1 minute, discard and repeat 2- 3 times.

Food:
Avoid hot fluids, alcohol, hard or chewy foods. Choose cool drinks and soft or minced foods. Avoid sucking at or interfering with the wound.

Bleeding:
Slight bleeding or ‘oozing’ may occur during the first 24 hours. Should bleeding occur sit upright with head and shoulders raised. Apply pressure using a small pad of gauze or clean linen clamped firmly between the jaws for 15 minutes - repeat if necessary.

Pain:
Painkillers as necessary.

If excessive bleeding, undue pain or other symptoms occur contact your Dental Surgeon for advice without delay.