Advice for once you have had your Tooth Extracted

Pain

There should be no pain immediately after the operation due to the local anaesthetic used. This should last for 3-4 hours before sensation returns slowly and care should be taken to avoid biting the lip or tongue during this time.

• Pain tends to be worse on the 2nd or 3rd day but gradually improves over a period of 7-10 days.
• Simple painkillers such as Paracetamol, Ibuprofen or Codydramol should control the pain.
• If there is a sudden increase in pain after a few days, this may indicate infection and you should contact us to make an appointment.

Swelling

• This is common after an extraction, it usually reaches it’s maximum 2-3days after the procedure
• The swelling should resolve in approximately 7-10days after surgery
• Bruising of the face and neck occasionally occurs and can take up to 2 weeks to resolve

Bleeding

• This should be minimal by the time you leave our dental practice
• Blood stained saliva is to be expected for 24-48 hours after the operation.
• Do not rinse the mouth for the first day. This may disturb the blood clot and cause bleeding.
• If persistent bleeding occurs, roll up a piece of gauze and place it over the wound and bite firmly over a period of at least 15 minutes. We will provide you with some gauze.

Oral Hygiene

• The next day, gently bathe the socket with warm, salty water mouth rinses. The water should be as warm as possible and a spoonful of salt added. Take a mouthful and hold it still for a couple of minutes before spitting out. · Repeat 4 times daily. This will help healing.
• Keep your teeth clean with gentle tooth brushing if possible. A tooth brush can be softened under a hot tap.

Diet

• Your mouth opening may be restricted for about a week.
• Eating semi- solid food should be possible.
• Use your own discretion and gradually start eating normally according to your own pace.

Stitches

• If you have stitches (sutures) in your mouth, these should dissolve and drop out after a period of 7-10 days.

Medication

• Antibiotics after the operation may be required for some patients, this will be discussed at your initial consultation
• If necessary, antibiotics and painkillers will be prescribed or advice given.

Time off work
· This will depend on your profession and the amount of surgery you dentist will be able to advise you at your initial consultation.