The Digital Dental Surgeon

After having dental extractions, a patient will usually be briefed by the attending dentist about post extraction instructions. Here are a list of instructions I usually give to my patients after having their tooth/teeth out.

1. Bite on the gauze given for at least 20 minutes in order to apply pressure to the extraction wound. This would help to stop the bleeding. Replace the gauze with a new one once it is soaked with saliva and/or blood.

2. Do not rinse you mouth vigorously as rinsing would dislodge the blood clot forming over the would. do not remove the blood clot as it prevents bleeding to recur.

3. Avoid hot food or drinks, cold ones are recommended to avoid bleeding to recur.

4. Avoid having food particles lodging into the wound, this may delay the healing and may sometimes create an infection to the wound. Do not avoid brushing the surrounding wound area, gentle brushing is recommended.

5. If possible, avoid consuming hard foods which may injure the gum surrounding the extraction wound.

6. If dizziness or nausea occurs after extraction, inform the attending dentist. A cup of liquid glucose may be needed if the extraction was done to a patient with an empty stomach.

7. Do not attempt to conduct vigorous exercise after extraction.

8. If bleeding recurs with prolonged bleeding, inform your dentist. The dentist will give you further instructions which may include returning to the clinic if needed.

9. Pain may be felt at the extraction area after the local anaesthetic has subsided. Prescribed painkillers should be administered according to instructions by the attending dentist. I usually prescribe Paracetamol or Ponstan for post-extraction pain.

10. To prevent swelling, apply an ice pack or a cold towel to the outside of your face in the area of the extraction during the first 12 hours. Apply alternately, 20 minutes on then 20 minutes off, for an hour or longer if necessary.

Popularity: 39% [?]