Home Instructions after Impacted Tooth Exposure

• Do not disturb the surgical area. If surgical packing was placed, leave it in place—it helps keep the tooth exposed.

• If the packing becomes loose or falls out, do not be alarmed. Contact our office for guidance.

• Mild bleeding or pink saliva is normal for up to 24 hours.

• If excessive bleeding occurs (filling the mouth rapidly with blood), place a gauze pad directly over the site and bite down firmly for 30 minutes.

• If bleeding continues, please call our office for further instructions.

• Swelling is normal after surgery. To minimize it:

• Apply an ice pack or a bag of ice to the cheek near the surgical area.

• Use ice as much as possible during the first 36 hours.

• Drink plenty of fluids.

• Avoid hot liquids and hard or crunchy foods.

• Stick to soft foods and liquids on the day of surgery.

• Return to a normal diet as soon as you are comfortable, unless otherwise instructed.

• Begin taking pain medication as soon as you feel the local anesthetic wearing off.

For Moderate Pain

• Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol: 1–2 tablets every 3–4 hours.

• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin): 400–600 mg (2–3 tablets of 200 mg) up to four times daily.

• Maximum 3200 mg/day for adults.

For Severe Pain

• Take the prescribed medication exactly as directed.

• Do not take any medication if you have allergies to it or have been advised not to.

• Avoid driving, operating machinery, or drinking alcohol while using prescription pain medication.

• Good oral hygiene is essential for proper healing.

• Begin cleaning your mouth the day after surgery.

• Brush your teeth normally, avoiding direct contact with the surgical site if uncomfortable.

• Rinse with prescribed medicated mouth rinse (Peridex).

• Remember: A clean wound heals faster.

• Limit physical activity immediately following surgery.

• If exercise causes throbbing or bleeding, stop immediately.

• Your normal food intake may be reduced, which can weaken you.

• If you feel lightheaded, discontinue activity.