It’s normal to feel some discomfort and mild pain as the anesthetic wears off. To help minimize any discomfort, reduce the risk of infection, and promote a speedy recovery we recommend you follow our post-extraction instructions to make sure you avoid any unnecessary complications. The team will discuss these with you but will also provide you with a written copy as it can be a lot to take in immediately after treatment. The main points to include are:
- Take any painkillers or antibiotics that your dentist has recommended or prescribed.
- Bite down firmly on the gauze pad for 30min to help the blood clot form in the socket and reduce bleeding. If bleeding continues, replace with a fresh moistened gauze pad and bite firmly for an additional 45min-1 hour. If bleeding still continues freely, contact Telopea Park Dental on (02) 6106 9333.
- Avoid smoking as this can impair healing.
- Avoid drinking alcohol as this can prolong bleeding.
- Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting for 24 hours after the extraction to avoid dislodging the blood clot. Rinse your mouth with a mouthwash or warm salt water AFTER 24 hours.
- Rest for at least 24 hours and avoid any strenuous activity for the next few days.
- On the day of extraction it is best to eat/drink soft and cool foods. A soft to normal diet may be eaten on the following day.
- Continue to brush and floss your teeth but avoid the extraction site.
It is quite normal for your mouth to be sore for up to 1 week after your extraction as it takes a few weeks for the new bone and tissue to grow into the gap. Once you’re healed and to avoid your other teeth shifting and causing bite problems we can discuss replacement options (denture, bridge, implant or nothing) to restore the gap for better appearance and function if necessary.