After Exposure of an Impacted Tooth

Do not disturb the wound. If a surgical packing was placed, leave it alone. The packing helps to keep the tooth exposed. If it gets dislodged or falls out do not get alarmed.

Bleeding

Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24 hours. A gauze pack has been placed over the surgical site.  Hold this in place with gentle biting pressure.  The gauze should be changed every 20-30 minutes for the next several hours until the majority of the bleeding has stopped.  When changing the gauze, be gentle as the gauze will stick to the braces.

Swelling

Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling, apply the ice pack you were given to the area for 20-30 minutes at a time.  Take a break for 30 minutes and then reapply the ice.  Do this for the next 48 hours.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or food the day of your surgery. Soft, cool food and liquids should be eaten on the day of surgery. Return to a normal diet as soon as it is comfortable.

Pain

You should begin taking pain medication as soon you get home.  You should eat a little something 20 minutes prior to taking the pain pills and take the medication in accordance with the prescription.  You may also supplement the pain medication with 400-600mg of Ibuprofen or Advil.

Oral Hygiene

Mouth cleanliness is essential to good healing. Clean your mouth thoroughly after each meal beginning the day after surgery. Brush your teeth as best you can. Rinse with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) 2-3 times a day. Continue this procedure until healing is complete.

REMEMBER: A clean wound heals better and faster.

Activity

You should avoid hard, physical activity for the first 72 hours.  It is best to rest and let your body heal.