Surgical Instructions

After Exposure of an Impacted Tooth

This type of surgery is also known as uncover or uncover and bracketing of an impacted tooth.
 

Care of the mouth after surgery has an important effect on healing.  Unnecessary pain and the complications of infection can be minimized if the instructions are followed carefully.

BLEEDING:
Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24 hours
PAIN & INFECTION CONTROL: 
It is important that you do not take pain medicine on an empty stomach. This could result in nausea. Mild discomfort can be expected for up to 14 days. However, if pain intensifies after several days, call our office.

a.     PAIN: 

                                                              i.       For moderate pain, one or two tablets of Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol may be taken every six hours or Ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) two to four 200mg tablets may be taken every six hours.

                                                             ii.      For severe pain, take the prescribed medication as directed. While you are taking this medication, do not drive or operate machinery and avoid alcoholic beverages.

b.     ANTIBIOTICS:  If you have been given antibiotics, take the medication as directed. They are given to help prevent infection.

If you have any reaction to these medications, such as hives, rash, nausea or vomiting, STOP taking them and call our office.

DIET:
A cool, soft diet with increased fluid intake is recommended for one week after your procedure. Examples of acceptable foods are milkshakes/smoothies, popsicles, ice cream, yogurt, pudding/jello, soup, mashed potatoes, soft casseroles, and pastas. AVOID HOT FOODS. After one week you may resume your normal diet.  However, crunchy, nutty and foods with seeds should not be eaten for one week after surgery.
SWELLING:  
Eating Popsicles or crushed ice will soothe the surgical site along with minimize swelling inside the mouth.
ORAL HYGEINE:
Do not rinse your mouth or brush your teeth for 24 hours. After 24 hours you may brush gently but avoid the surgical site(s). The day after surgery you may begin using warm salt water rinses after eating and at bedtime. Dissolve ½ teaspoon salt in a cup of warm water and gently rinse. This will help to keep the areas clean and promote healing.
NAUSEA:
Try sipping one ounce of NON-carbonated soda every hour for 5-6 hours.  This can be followed by mild tea or clear soups/broth. If you feel the nausea may be related to the prescription medication, stop taking them and call our office. 
FATIGUE:
Avoid over-fatigue. Go to bed early and get adequate rest. Maintain a low level of activity for several days
Everyone's case is unique because no two mouths are the same. Even well meaning advice from family and friends can be misleading. If you have questions or concerns, please call our office and we will be happy to help you.