Bleeding

Some oozing of blood is expected following any surgical procedure. If bleeding is present, bite firmly on a gauze pad placed directly over the surgical site for 15 minutes. Repeat as necessary. If gauze is unavailable, use a moistened tea bag. If bleeding continues avoid spitting, laying flat, physical activity, smoking, hot liquids or sucking through a straw, all of which will increase bleeding.

Activity

Discomfort

Take Tylenol, Ibuprofen or pain medication prescribed for you as directed before the numbness wears off. In general, after removal of lower wisdom teeth you should be feeling better by the third day after surgery. If you are not feeling better, or are in more pain, please notify the office.

Diet

The day of surgery, your diet should consist of liquids, ice cream, jello, custard, etc.; then diet as tolerated the next day. An adequate oral intake will help prevent nausea and dehydration. Nausea can generally be prevented by taking tea with toast, broth with crackers, 7-up, Ginger Ale, etc. Avoid popcorn, nuts and seeds for 6 weeks after oral surgery.

Swelling and Bruising

Maximum swelling normally occurs with 72 hours after surgery. After 3 days, if swelling persists, use warm, moist towels or a heating pad to help reduce the swelling. Bruising may occur and persist for 5-7 days.
ICE: Place an icebag firmly to your cheek 1/2 hour on, 1/2 hour off, for the first 24 hours.

HEAT: Apply moist, warm compresses over swollen area or a heating pad on a low setting the following day for 24 hours.

Sutures

Light colored sutures may become loose and dissolve withing 2-7 days. Black sutures do not dissolve and must be removed by your doctor.

Oral Hygiene

Brush all of your teeth, except the surgical area, the night of the surgery. The next day brush all of your teeth, brushing gently over the surgical area and rinse your mouth four times a day using a 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. This will help to prevent an infection or dry socket.

Other

An elevated temperature is normal for the first 24-48 hours after surgery. Numbness (paresthesia) of the lip or tongue on the operated side may persist for an undetermined duration. Avoid driving or operating hazardous equiptment the day of the surgery if a general anesthetic has been administered. Bone silvers may surface following the surgery but usually fall out; others may require removal. A large or unstable filling may become dislodged at the time of surgery or shortly thereafter.

Birth Control

The use of antibiotics may decrease the effectiveness of oral birth control pills and the use of alternative birth control methods are recommmended.

Retained Roots

Root fragments near nerves, vital structures, or sinuses may be retained to minimize injury to these areas.