Tooth Extraction In Lake Mary by Family Dental Care

Post-Op Instructions  -  Extraction

There are a variety of problems that can arise after any surgical procedure.  Some may require additional therapy or emergency medical attention.  If you have any questions or concerns, please call our office for assistance.  If you feel you are having a medical emergency related to your dental treatment, please go to the emergency immediately for care.

Anesthesia:  The numbness will begin to wear off in 30 minutes – 4 hours.  Until the numbness has completely worn off, please avoid all hot foods or liquids and do not chew (to prevent accidental burns or biting of the cheeks, lips or tongue).  Any concerns about prolonged numbness, please call the office for assistance.

Gauze Pack:  After slightly wetting the gauze, please fold the gauze into a small pack and place it over the extraction site with firm pressure.  Maintain the pressure for 1-2 hours following surgery.  Change the gauze pack every 15-30 minutes.  Please be careful not to place a very dry gauze pack on the extraction site as it may dislodge the clot that must form for healing.

Bleeding:  It is normal for the extraction site to bleed or slightly ooze for the 12-24 hours following surgery.

Ice Pack:  Ice packs may be applied to the outside area of the face near the extraction site if swelling occurs.  Apply to the area for 15 minutes then remove for 15 minutes, alternating until the swelling subsides. 

Medications:  If prescription medications were prescribed please follow the instructions on the label those given to you by the doctor to the letter.  If you experience any unexpected side effects, please discontinue use and contact our office for assistance.

Diet:  Liquid or soft diet only is permissible within the 24 hours after surgery.  It is important to drink plenty of fluids.  D NOT SUCK LIQUIDS THROUGH A STRAW, SPIT OR USE ANY ORAL RINSES WITHIN 48 HOURS OF SURGERY.  These behaviors may dislodge the important clot that will form in the extraction site.

Oral Hygiene:  Clean all other areas of your mouth as usual.  Avoid the extraction site for 48 hours, and then resume normal hygiene of the area.

IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU REFRAIN FROM SMOKING FOR A MINIMUM OF 48 HOURS AFTER SURGERY.  THE SUCKING MOTION OF SMOKING AND THE DRYNESS AND TOXICITY OF THE CIGARETTE/CIGAR SMOKE IS LIKELY TO CAUSE A DRY SOCKET.  THIS HAPPENs WHEN THE FORMATION OF THE CLOT IN THE EXTRACTION SITE IS INHIBITED AND CAN BE VERY PAINFUL AND CAUSE INFECTION. FOR YOU OWN SAFETY AND WELL-BEING, PLEASE REFRAIN FROM SMOKING.

If you experience fever, a foul or infection type odor or taste near the area or severe swelling lasting more than 24-48 hours please contact our office immediately. 

Please do not hesitate to contact our office with any questions or concerns. If you should require urgent assistance after hours, please call:  407-529-5681

Thank you for being a great patient!