AFTER TOOTH EXTRACTION - CATONSVILLE, MD

Some bleeding after your tooth extraction is normal. To stop any persistent bleeding, bite down on a gauze pad for 30 minutes at a time. This can be repeated for as long as necessary. Any bleeding that is excessive or uncontrollable should be reported to us immediately.

Minor swelling is common after tooth extraction. Apply an ice pack to the area consistently until the swelling subsides in about 48 hours.

Pain and discomfort are normal but can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Take all pain medication as instructed. The pain will subside after a few days, so contact our office in Catonsville, MD if this pain worsens.

If you have been prescribed antibiotics, take these tablets or liquid as instructed. Do not skip any of the medication, even if you no longer feel any pain. Antibiotics help reduce the risk of infection after your surgery.

Resume your normal oral hygiene routine 24 hours after your surgery. Floss once a day. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be careful not to brush around the extraction site for the next 72 hours.

In the days following your surgery, drink the recommended amount of water every day and stick to a nutritional soft-food diet. As soon as you feel comfortable biting and chewing foods, you can resume eating normally. Avoid hot foods and liquids, do not use a straw, and refrain from drinking alcohol for 72 hours after surgery.

Do not partake in any rigorous exercise or physical activity for the first 24 hours after surgery to avoid dislodging the blood clot. Exercise increases blood pressure and can cause the surgical site to bleed.