Home Instructions After Impacted Tooth Exposure

After Impacted tooth exposure, do not disturb the wound. If surgical packing was placed, leave it alone. The packing helps to keep the tooth exposed. If it gets dislodged or falls out, do not get alarmed but please contact our office for instructions.

Bleeding

Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24 hours. Excessive bleeding that rapidly fills your mouth with blood can frequently be controlled by biting with firm pressure on gauze placed directly on the bleeding wound for 60 minutes. If bleeding continues, please call the office for further instructions.

Swelling

Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling, apply an ice bag or a plastic bag filled with ice cubes on your cheek near the area of surgery. Apply the ice as much as possible for the first 24-72 hours.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or hard foods. Only consume soft food and liquids for approximately 7 days. Return to a normal diet as tolerated after one week.

Pain

You should begin taking pain medication before the local anesthetic starts wearing off. Dr. Pierse will prescribe an anti-inflammatory will be moderate pain and a narcotic for breakthrough pain. If the anti-inflammatory is not helping with the pain, alternately taking the anti-inflammatory with the narcotic, as prescribed. Do not take the anti-inflammatory and narcotic at the same time. If you have any questions concerning the pain you are experiencing, or the taking of the prescribed medication, please call our office at any time. Consult our practice for individuals under 18. Do not take the two medications at the same time.

Additionally, for severe pain, the prescribed medication should be taken as directed. Do not take any of the above medication if you are allergic to them or have been instructed by your doctor not to take them. Do not drive an automobile or work around machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Pain or discomfort following surgery should subside gradually over the course of 7 days. If pain persists, it may require attention and you should call the office.

Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene is essential to good healing. Clean your mouth thoroughly after each meal, beginning the day after surgery. Brush your teeth normally if possible. Rinse with warm sea salt water (1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) twice a day for 2-3 weeks. 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 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.

Contact Precision Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery online or by phone at Phoenix Office Phone Number (623) 518-2325.