Maintain biting pressure on gauze for at least one hour following surgery, then carefully remove. In case of continued or excessive bleeding place two fresh, clean 2" x 2" gauze pads folded over directly on top of the socket and bite down firmly. Replace every hour as needed. Slight oozing will persist for 24 hours or more and should not be cause for undue concern. After several hours, if brisk bleeding persists even though pressure has been applied, consult us for advice and instructions. Keep your head elevated while sleeping the first night after surgery.

You can expect swelling following oral surgery, especially with impacted teeth. This swelling will generally reach it's peak 2-3 days after surgery. An ice pack applied alternating from side to side for 20 minutes at a time will help ease discomfort and reduce swelling. Ice can be used for the first 36-48 hours. Warm, moist compresses should be used after that time to help reduce any persistent swelling.

Begin rinsing your mouth the morning after surgery. At first, rinse your mouth with a warm salt water solution made up of a small amount of salt in a large glass of water. Rinsing should be done after each meal, upon arising in the morning and before going to bed at night. After a few days, you may if you desire, switch to a mouth rinse of diluted mouth wash. Maintain your normal oral hygiene by beginning to carefully brush your teeth on the day following surgery.

Tylenol, Advil, or a similar substitute may be taken for mild pain. If indicated you will have been given a prescription for a stronger pain medication. An antibiotic may also be prescribed. Take your first dose of pain medication before the local anesthetic (numbness) begins to wear off. Thereafter take the medication only if necessary to control pain. Do not drive a vehicle, operate machinery or drink alcohol or take tranquilizers or sleeping pills while taking the prescription pain medications. Prescriptions for antibiotics should be taken as instructed until the medication is finished. If you are a female taking birth control pills please be aware that prescription drugs can interfere with the action of birth control pills and you should rely on some other form of birth control during this current monthly cycle.

That May Occur Bruising (black and blue or yellow), jaw stiffness, weakness, and headache. Small bone fragments or sharp edges may arise. If troublesome please return to our office for treatment. Occasional numbness of the lip, chin, or tongue may occur, especially after removal of wisdom teeth. This numbness is usually transient and in most cases will return to normal in 1-6 months.