After Exposure of An Impacted Tooth
Please, do not disturb the wound. If surgical packing was placed, leave it alone. The pack helps to keep the tooth exposed. If it gets dislodged or falls out, do not get alarmed. We recommend seeing your orthodontist 7-10 days after surgical exposure and bonding has been preformed.
Bleeding
Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24 hours after your procedure. Excessive bleeding which results in your mouth filling rapidly with blood can frequently be controlled by biting with pressure on a moistened (tap water) gauze pad placed directly on the bleeding wound for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues, please call our office for further instructions.
Swelling
Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling, apply an ice bag or towel filled with ice cubes on the cheek in the area of surgery. Apply the ice 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off as much as possible for the first 24 hours while awake.
Diet
Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or food if your mouth, chin, and lips are still numb. Soft food and liquids should be eaten on the day of surgery. Return to a normal diet as soon as possible unless otherwise directed.
Pain
You should begin taking pain medication before you feel the local anesthetic wearing off. For moderate pain, please take over the counter Ibuprofen as directed.
Oral Hygiene
A clean mouth is essential to good healing. Clean your mouth thoroughly after each meal beginning the day after surgery. Brush your teeth as best as you can. Rinse with warm salt water (one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) six times a day. Continue this procedure until healing is complete.
REMEMBER: A clean wound heals better and faster.
Activity
Keep physical activities to a minimum immediately following surgery. If you are considering exercise, throbbing or bleeding may occur. If this occurs, you should discontinue exercising. Be aware that your normal nourishment intake is reduced. Exercise may weaken you. If you get light headed, please stop exercising.