After Exposure of an Impacted Tooth
Home Instructions After Impacted Tooth Exposure
After Impacted tooth exposure, do not disturb the wound. If surgical packing was placed, leave it alone. The packing helps to keep the tooth exposed. If it gets dislodged or falls out, do not get alarmed but please contact our office for instructions. Click here for Post Op Instructions – English
Bleeding
Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24 hours. Excessive bleeding that rapidly fills your mouth with blood can frequently be controlled by biting with pressure on a 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 post-operative swelling, apply an ice pack to the outside of your face for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off for the first 24 hours.
Diet
Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or hard foods. Only consume soft food and liquids on the day of surgery. Return to a normal diet as soon as possible unless otherwise directed.
Pain
For moderate pain, take Ibuprofen 600 mg and one or two tablets of extra strength Tylenol, alternate every three hours. Ibuprofen bought over the counter comes in 200 mg tablets: 3 tablets may be taken four times daily, not to exceed 3200mg daily for an adult. Consult our practice for individuals under 18. Do not take the two medications at the same time
For severe pain, the prescribed medication should be taken as directed. Do not take any of the above medication if you are allergic to them, or have been instructed by your doctor not to take it. Do not drive an automobile or work around machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Pain or discomfort following surgery should subside more and more every day. If pain persists, it may require attention and you should call the office.
Oral Hygiene
The night of surgery rinse your mouth with warm saline rinses and continue for ten days. Rinse after each meal and before bed. (1/2 teaspoon of salt to a full glass of water)
Activity
Keep physical activities to a minimum immediately following surgery. If you exercise, throbbing or bleeding may occur. If this occurs, you should discontinue exercising. Be aware that your normal nourishment intake is reduced. Exercise may weaken you. If you get light headed, stop exercising.
