Post-Op Care: Extraction

1. Bleeding – Following surgery, some bleeding is to be expected. If bleeding persists, place slightly moistened gauze pads
   directly over bleeding area and bite down firmly for ½ hour. DO NOT eat or sleep with the gauze in your mouth.
2. Swelling – Ice pack should be applied on the outside of the face over the operated area for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off for the day of surgery and the day after. Switch to moist heat on the third day to relieve any additional swelling and muscle tightness. Swelling usually reaches its maximum 2-3 days post-operatively.
3. Medication – PAIN- Take as prescribed, NEVER ON AN EMPTY STOMACH. Do not drive or operate
   machinery while taking narcotic medications (Norco). Your routine medication(s) should be taken as scheduled, unless otherwise directed by the doctor. BIRTH CONTROL PILLS – Female patients taking birth control pills should use alternate contraceptive methods if antibiotics are prescribed.
   • Motrin (Ibuprofen) 600mg – 1 tablet every 6 hours. Used for pain and swelling.
   • Over the Counter – Motrin/Advil/Ibuprofen 200mg each 2-3 tablets every 6 hours as needed for pain.
   • Decadron (Dexamethasone) – 1 tablet in the am for the next two mornings.
4. Activity – Keep to a minimum for the first 24 hours. No vigorous exercise until approved by the doctor.
5. Oral Hygiene – Do not rinse or spit for the first 24 hours. Thereafter, rinse gently every 3-4 hours, especially after meals, using ½ tsp. salt to an 8oz. glass of warm water. Continue rinses for several days. After the third day, gentle brushing can be done over the surgical sites.
6. Food – chewing comfort regulates diet. Light diet is advisable during the first 24 hours. Soft foods, i.e. – eggs, pasta, soup, jell-o, applesauce, and milkshakes are recommended. NO STRAWS, Avoid drinking from a straw for 2 – 3 days following the extraction(s).
7. Smoking – Should be discontinued or kept to a minimum for the first couple of days following extraction(s).
8. Sutures – The sutures will dissolve and fall out anywhere from 5 – 10 days following the extraction(s).
   The following occurrences should be expected and cause no concern:

The following occurrences should be expected and cause no concern:

• A bad taste in your mouth or bad breath that can last several days following an extraction(s).
• Swelling may follow surgery within the first 24 hours and possibly last up to 72 hours following surgery.
• Discomfort at surgical areas
• A slightly elevated temperature within the first 24 hours.
• If any unusual symptoms occur, please feel free to call our office. Our phones are answered 24 hours a day.

If you have any questions or concerns prior to surgery please call our office:

Farmington Hills: (248) 553-3280
Canton: (734) 656-2500
Brighton: (810) 229-9600