Tooth extraction, a common dental procedure, involves removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone, often due to decay, damage, or overcrowding. Postoperative care is crucial to promote healing, minimize complications like infection or dry socket, and ensure patient comfort. 

Detailed Post-operative Instructions

1. Bleeding Control:

• After the extraction, patients are typically provided with gauze pads to bite on for 30-45 minutes to control bleeding and facilitate blood clot formation, essential for healing. If bleeding persists, replace the gauze and bite firmly for another 30 minutes as needed up to 24 hours.

• Avoid spitting, rinsing, or touching the extraction site for 24 hours to prevent dislodging the clot.

2. Swelling Management:

• Doctor recommends wearing an ice pack for 72 hours with 10-15 minute breaks, allow ice pack use up to 72 hours as needed, particularly for significant swelling.

• Apply the ice pack for 10-15 minutes at a time, with breaks to prevent skin damage, aligning with the user’s instruction and standard practice of avoiding direct ice contact by wrapping it in a towel.

• After 72 hours, we recommend warm compresses as needed, which is consistent with guidelines suggesting warm compresses after the initial cold therapy period to help with any residual swelling.

• We also advise sleeping on the opposite side, a common recommendation to reduce pressure on the surgical site and minimize swelling.

3. Pain Management:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen are recommended as needed, with prescribed painkillers to be taken as directed. The painkillers are typically recommended for three days, aligning with standard practice when pain is most significant.

• If antibiotics are prescribed, we emphasize completing the full course, which is crucial to prevent infection, especially in cases with higher risk.

4. Oral Hygiene:

• Do not brush or floss the extraction site for 24 hours. After 24 hours, resume gentle brushing of other teeth, avoiding the site, and start saltwater rinses.

• Saltwater rinse: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gently swish after meals and before bed, a common practice to keep the area clean and promote healing.

5. Dietary Restrictions:

• For the first 24 hours, consume soft, cool foods and avoid hot, spicy, or hard foods to prevent irritation and bleeding. Specifically, avoid hot tea, hot coffee, and foods that could increase bleeding, aligning with guidelines to minimize thermal and mechanical trauma.

• Do not use a straw for at least 24 hours to prevent suction that could dislodge the clot.

6. Physical Activity:

• Rest for the first 24 hours and avoid strenuous physical activity for a few days, as recommended by doctor, to prevent increased blood flow and potential complications like bleeding or swelling.

7. Stitch Care:

• If stitches are present, keep them clean as instructed by doctor. Stitches are typically removed during a follow-up.

8. Follow-up Appointment:

• Schedule a follow-up visit for re-evaluation, typically 10-14 days after procedure.