After Exposure of an Impacted Tooth
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.
Bleeding
Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24 hours. Excessive bleeding which results in your mouth filling rapidly with blood can frequently be controlled by biting with pressure on a gauze pad placed directly on the bleeding wound for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues please call for further instructions.
Swelling
Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling, apply an ice bag or a plastic 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 while awake for the first 36 hours. After 36 hours, ice has no beneficial effect and can make swelling and pain worse.
Diet
Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or food. Soft food and liquids should be eaten for 5 to 7 days. Return to a normal diet after that unless otherwise directed.
Pain
You should begin taking pain medication as soon as you feel the local anesthetic wearing off. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) bought over the counter comes in 200 mg tablets: 2 to 3 tablets may be taken every 6 hours as needed for pain. In addition, 1 or 2 Tylenol or Extra Strength. Tylenol may be taken every 4 to 6 hours. For severe pain, the prescribed medication may be taken as directed.
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 as directed with the prescribed mouth rinse. 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. Exercise may increase bleeding, swelling, and pain.