Following a procedure, it is important that you do all that our dentist has recommended to ensure the best results. This includes properly resting, taking prescribed medications, refraining from exhaustive exercise, and more. Find out what else is required of you here.
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Instructions Following Extractions and Surgeries
It is so important for a blood clot to form to slow and stop bleeding at extraction and surgery sites. So you need to bite firmly on gauze for 30-45 minutes after the extraction. If bleeding continues after you remove it, place a WET, folded piece of gauze and bite firmly another 30 minutes. You may need to do this several times.
It is normal for the site to ooze slowly and for your saliva to be red for a few hours. After the blood clot forms it is important to protect it, especially for the next 24 hours.
Any of the below activities could dislodge the clot and may result in the slowing down of your healing or additional bleeding. We ask that you please limit your physical activities for the next 24 hours following your procedure.
- Do not smoke
- Avoid spitting and suction (no straws)
- Do not rinse your mouth vigorously
- Avoid heavy or strenuous activities i.e., exercise
After the numbness has worn off, you may feel some pain or have swelling. You can use an ice bag for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off to help keep the swelling to a minimum. Swelling normally goes down within 48 hours. Do not use heat for the first 24 hours unless instructed as it can cause increased swelling.
To control discomfort, take pain medication as recommended. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them until they are finished, even if all symptoms and signs of infection are gone.
Drink lots of fluids and eat only soft nutritious foods on the day of extraction.
Do not use alcoholic or carbonated beverages and avoid hot, salty, or spicy foods. You can begin eating normally the next day or as soon as it is comfortable for you.
Begin gently rinsing with water or salt water the day after the extraction. Gently clean teeth next to the extraction site.
Also, be sure to rinse your mouth gently after meals as this helps keep food out of your extraction site. It’s important to resume your normal dental hygiene after 24 hours. This should include brushing and flossing at least once a day. A clean area allows for faster healing.
Please do not hesitate to call right away if heavy bleeding persists, areas continue to swell, pain worsens after 2-3 days, or any reactions to any medications occur. If there are any problems or questions after you have left the office, we can be reached at (586) 752-4545. After hours, Dr. Lesinski can be reached on his cell phone at (810) 278-5970.