Facts About Dentistry

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• You will be leaving with gauze to bite on.  Keep this gauze in place for 30 minutes.  After this time gently remove and discard this gauze.  Replace it with another (two gauze folded in quarters).  Bite on this gauze for another 30 minutes, then gently remove and discard.

• Keep PRESSURE on a gauze until the bleeding stops. If HEAVY bleeding continues for more than an hour call us. We always give you extra gauze.

• It is useful to apply pressure and a cold pack to reduce swelling. This can be applied to the outside of the mouth but make sure any local anesthetic has worn off or you may get frost bite.  Never use a hot compress as this will increase the swelling.

• It is normal to find a little bleeding, even for a couple days. To help stop oozing, you can take a tea bag, wet it, squeeze all the water out, place it over the extraction area and bite on it for 20 minutes. The tannic acid in the tea constricts tiny blood vessels in the wound and helps to form a clot and stop the bleeding.

• Avoid alcohol beverages and hot liquids for 24 hours. These beverages will make the wound bleed more.

• Drink plenty of fluids.

• Try to eat soft, nutritious foods for the next few meals.

• Reduce strenuous activity for 24 hours.

• On the following day gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1/4 - 1/2 tsp. salt in 5 ounces of water) after every meal for two to three days.

• It is normal to experience some discomfort, and to notice a little swelling.

• If you have received a prescription for pain or an antibiotic, please take the medication as directed.

• If you have been directed to use an ice pack, please follow the instructions.

• Place an old towel on your pillow to prevent any blood spots.