Bleeding
Do not spit, rinse or use a straw for the first 24 hours. Bite firmly on gauze for one hour and then remove. Slight oozing from the sockets may last one to two days. The blood clots will also tinge the saliva causing it to be reddish in color, especially the first 24 hours. If excessive bleeding occurs, place a moistened gauze pad directly on the bleeding area and close mouth firmly so that prressure is applied. Replace the gauze apporximately every 40 minutes until bleeding has been controlled. A moistened tea bag may be used effectively if gauze is not available.

Pain
Pain from surgical procedures in the highly sensitive oral cavity can be controlled by taking the medications as directed. Unless otherwise instructed begin the first dose immediately so that the pain medication can be in full effect before the local anesthetic wears off. If you notice symptoms of a dry socket(sudden throbbing pain three days after surgery) call our office.

Do not drive for one day after the surgery (if sedated) or as long as you are taking pain medication.

Ice Packs
Upon reaching home apply ice packs to the outside of the face 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off and continue for the next 24 hours. The height of swelling can be expected on the 2nd or 3rd day after surgery.

Oral Hygiene
Rinse with warm salt water (1/4 teaspoon of salt in 4oz glass of warm water) several times a day for at least a week starting the day after surgery.

Diet
Soft foods that can be chewed and swallowed easily may be indicated for the first 24 hours. Nourishment should be taken reguarly. Try not to miss a single meal, beginning with soups and soft foods, gradually progressing to solid food. A nutritionally balanced diet is essential for well-being, gaining strength, feeling less pain and more rapid healing.

Smoking
DO NOT SMOKE FOR FOUR(4) DAYS AFTER SURGERY. Smoking greatly delays healing and promotes a dry socket and infection.