After Wisdom Tooth Removal

POST-OPERATIVE CARE INSTRUCTIONS

1. Leave gauze in place for one hour. If abnormal bleeding occurs, fold a gauze square, wet it, place it over the surgical area and bite down on it for 20 minutes. Do not go to sleep with gauze in your mouth.

2. Place an ice pack to your face 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off as much as possible for the first 24 hours. Ice is effective in limiting swelling to the surgical area and surrounding tissue.  Keeping your head elevated with pillows when resting will also help decrease the swelling.

3. Do not rinse your mouth until the following morning. Rinsing may dislodge the blood clot and interrupt the normal process of healing. In the morning, rinse the mouth gently with a glass of warm salt water (1/2 teaspoonful of salt in a glass of warm water). Repeat rinsing after meals and at bedtime. Your teeth should be given their usual care except in the region of the surgery where gentle care should be observed.

4. For your own comfort soft foods are indicated for the first couple of days. Drink plenty of fluids but avoid carbonated beverages. Do not use a straw.

5. No smoking for 3-4 days. Failure to do this will increase discomfort at the surgical site and delay healing.

6. Plan light activity and rest for a couple of days. No heavy lifting or bending especially for the first day.

7. If silk sutures have been placed by Dr. Turley, you will need to return to the office for their removal in one week.

8. Take Tylenol or Advil as directed for discomfort. Dr. Turley may give you a prescription for pain medication. Take as directed but do not drive or operate heavy equipment when taking pain medication.

9. Observation of the above suggestions will aid in your rapid recovery. If questions or problems arise, please do not hesitate to call Dr. Turley at 920-674-9567 (office) or 920-723-0168 (cell).