After Wisdom Tooth Removal

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The removal of impacted teeth is a serious surgical procedure. Post-operative care is very important. Unnecessary pain and the complications of infection and swelling can be minimized if the instructions are followed carefully.

• PRESCRIPTIONS – If you received a prescription for pain medication, follow the directions on the bottle. Take no other pain medications or sedatives without first discussing with me. Do not operate a motor vehicle or machinery (lawn mower, etc.) while taking the pain medication. Beginning the day after the extractions you may start taking Ibuprofen, 400-600mg with each meal until your soreness resolves. Do not take Ibuprofen if you have been intolerant of this medication in the past.  Do not drive or operate machinery for 24 hours after surgery due to sedation.
• BLEEDING - Place gauze over the tooth sockets, bite firmly on the gauze for 30 minutes. If bleeding returns, place new folded gauze and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. Slight oozing of blood is normal for 12-24 hours. If you experience bright red bleeding, please call me.
• RINSING - DO NOT RINSE OR SPIT TODAY. Tomorrow begin gentle rinsing with warm salt water (one teaspoon table salt in 12 ounce glass of warm tap water) after each meal and at bedtime. You may carefully brush your teeth beginning tonight with a soft toothbrush, avoiding the socket area(s).
• DIET – Take only liquids or very soft foods today. Advance your diet tomorrow as tolerated. Avoid hot, spicy foods for one week and popcorn, potato chips, tortilla chips, etc. for two weeks.
• SWELLING – Swelling is normal during the first 2-3 days. An ice pack on each side of the lower jaw for the first 48 hours will decrease pain and swelling. Swelling can also be controlled by elevating your head on two pillows while sleeping.  After 48 hours, you should switch to moist heat therapy, if needed, rather than ice packs.  If your swelling dramatically increases after several days, please notify me.
• SMOKING – DO NOT SMOKE FOR ONE WEEK. The heat and toxic chemicals in cigarette smoke are harmful to healing wounds.
• STITCHES - You may notice some stitches in your mouth. These will dissolve over one week to two weeks. Do not be concerned if you lose a stitch prior to the return appointment.
• DO NOT DRINK THROUGH A STRAW - For at least three days.
• ROUTINE DENTAL CARE - Do not schedule routine dental care (such as cleanings, fillings, etc.) for at least 4 weeks post-oral surgery procedures.
• PROBLEMS - If any problems arise or if you have any questions please call (940)264-6000. If it is after regular office hours and your have problems or urgent questions that cannot wait until the next business day, call (940)264-6000 and leave a message.  Dr. Vergara will return your call.