Post-Operative Instructions for 3rd Molar Extractions

DO NOT SPIT, RINSE, SUCK (USE A STRAW), SMOKE, DRINK CARBONATED OR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES FOR AT LEAST 48 TO 72 HOURS. The goal is to keep the blood clot in the socket to prevent bleeding and a painful complication from occurring, known as a DRY SOCKET. Leaving your appointment:

• Apply pressure to gauze for 20 – 30 minutes
• With clean hands, remove gauze
• Eat soft foods
• Drink plenty of clear liquids
• Begin taking prescriptions (as directed) as soon as they are filled
• With clean hands, place clean gauze in mouth and apply pressure for another 20 minutes

Things to be aware of:

• Morning after surgery, start brushing teeth gently and be careful not to spit – just let water passively empty from your mouth.
• Gentle salt water rinses should be done after eating and before bed.
• If bleeding persists after the above steps, apply firm pressure on gauze for 40 minutes and do not change the gauze frequently.
• Light bleeding, discomfort, and swelling are all normal for a few days after wisdom teeth extractions.
• Days 3 – 5 after surgery will be the peak of discomfort and swelling.
• Prescriptions: You can alternate norco/ibuprofen every 4 hours. After finishing prescriptions, continue alternating ibuprofen and tylenol as needed for discomfort.
• If you are given prescriptions, it is recommended to stay on a schedule with the medications to stay ahead of any pain.
• Ice packs can be applied to cheeks in 15 minute increments.
• Day 3 after surgery, switching over to heat compress is recommended.
• Day 3 after surgery, switching over to heat compress is recommended.
• Soft foods such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, etc are recommended for a week after surgery.
• The monoject syringe given to you should be used starting day 5 after surgery. Pull up warm salt water to gently flush sockets as needed for trapped food.
• Stitches are not placed after wisdom teeth removal unless told otherwise.If you have received sutures, avoid playing with them. The stitches will dissolve on their own unless the doctor states otherwise.
• Nausea can occur after oral surgery. Nausea can be reduced by eating prior to taking pain medication, followed by a large volume of water. If nausea persists, please notify our office.
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for a week after surgery.

If you are experiencing any unusual pain or you have any questions regarding your post-operative care, please contact us at (205) 870-1009. Do It Yourself Ice Packs: What you need:

• 1 quart or 1-gallon plastic freezer bags (depending on how large you want the cold pack)
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup rubbing alcohol

Instructions:

• Fill the plastic freezer bag with 1 cup of rubbing alcohol and 2 cups of water.
• Try to get as much air out of the freezer bag before sealing it shut.
• Place the bag and its contents inside a second freezer bag to contain any leakage.
• Leave the bag in the freezer for at least an hour.
• When it’s ready, place a towel between the gel pack and bare skin to avoid burning the skin.