Exposure of an Impacted Tooth

After Exposure of an Impacted Tooth

Bleeding

Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for one to two days. 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 30-minute intervals. Do not frequently change out the gauze as it dislodges a developing clot. A moistened tea bag can be substituted for gauze. Do not apply ice to the area if bleeding is a concern. 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 for 20-minute intervals. Apply the ice 20 minutes and 20 minutes off. Do NOT leave the ice in place continuously.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or food while numb. Soft food and liquids should be eaten on the day of surgery. Return to a normal diet as soon as possible unless otherwise directed.

Pain

You should begin taking pain medication as soon as you feel the local anesthetic wearing off. For moderate pain, over the counter analgesics may be used. For severe pain, the prescribed medication should be taken as directed.

Oral Hygiene

Mouth cleanliness is essential to good healing. Clean your mouth thoroughly after each meal beginning the day after surgery. Brush your teeth as best you can starting the next day. Rinse with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) after all meals. Continue this procedure until healing is complete.

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. Be aware that your normal nourishment intake is reduced. Exercise may weaken you. If you get light headed, stop exercising.