Extraction, Bone Grafting & Regeneration – Instructions
Brushing / Flossing
Do not brush or floss the treated area(s) for 1 week.
You may brush and floss all other teeth normally.
You will be scheduled for a follow-up appointment in 7-10 days and proper brushing and flossing of the area(s) will be reviewed at that time.
Eating
Softer foods will be desired for the first few days. Avoid crunchy, hard, spicy, salty foods (pretzels, nuts, chips) as they will irritate the treated area(s).
Avoid hot foods for the 1st day (hot soups, coffe, tea) as they will increase swelling to the treated area(s). Warm foods can be consumed on the 2nd day.
Cut food into small pieces and chew on the untreated side of your mouth.
Avoid drinking with a straw for 3 days as this can create bleeding.
Discomfort and Swelling
It is normal to experience pain, throbbing or discomfort. Typically the first 2-3 days is when the most soreness occurs. The discomfort can last up to one week and possibly into the 2nd day.
“Delayed discomfort” is possible. This means that you may feel little to no discomfort the 1st week but do experience some the 2nd week.
Swelling of the gum and cheek is normal. A cold pack can be gently placed on the outside of the cheek for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 4 hours. his is most effective the first 24 to 72 hours following surgery.
Minimize talking as much as possible the first day in attempt to help with discomfort and swelling.
Bleeding
It is normal to experience slight bleeding for the first 2-3 days.
Gauze will be sent home with you to bite on if the area bleeds. Fold 2 pieces of lightly moistened gauze into a small square; place it in the extraction site and bite. Change the gauze about every 5 minutes until you no longer see any blood.
Some medications can increase the amount of bleeding such as aspirin, Plavix, Coumadin.
If the area continues to bleed with the gauze in place, remove the gauze and replace with a moist tea bag. The tannic acid in the tea will help to control the bleeding. Unfortunately the taste will not be pleasant.
If excessive bleeding occurs after attempting the above procedures, call the office number (317) 844-2792, or after hours Emergency number (317) 691-4169.
Sutures
Sutures (stitches) are absorbable and will come out within 5-10 days. They may untie and become loose. Do NOT attempt to pull or remove the sutures. If they are long and bothersome, you can trim them with small scissors.
Working
It is not advised to return to work the same day of surgery due to possible discomfort and bleeding.
You likely will be able to return to work the following day.
If you elect to be sedated for the procedure, you are NOT to return to work the same day but may return the following day.
Exercising
Avoid exercising or heavy lifting for 2 days.
Smoking
It is best not to smoke during the 1st week following the surgery as it will delay the healing process.
Prescription Mouth Rinse
Rinse twice daily (after breakfast and before bedtime) for 1 week.
Antibiotic
Take as directed until gone.
Pain Medication
Take as needed.
Ibuprofen, Tylenol, Advil, or prescribed medication.
1 Week Follow-Up Appointment
An appointment will be scheduled for you to return 7-10 days following the surgery to evaluate the healing of the treated areas.
At this time, your next follow-up appointment will be determined.
