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.  The packing needs to be removed in 7-14 days. Make sure you have an appointment with your surgeon, orthodontist or dentist for this. See postoperative instructions for wisdom teeth.

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 continuously as much as possible for the first 36 hours.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or food. 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

Please see Tips on Postoperative Pain Management in wisdom tooth section or as a downloadable form.

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 (one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) several 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, stop exercising.