Post-extraction Instructions

Bleeding

Bleeding will occur in the first 15-30 minutes after the tooth has been extracted. Your child will be sent home biting down on a gauze pad.  The pressure of biting down on the gauze will help the bleeding stop and can be taken out after 20 minutes.  If there is a lot of bleeding, you can placed a dampened piece of gauze over the extraction site and apply pressure for another 20 minutes.  Blood may ooze from the extraction site all day.  If your child continues to have a lot of bleeding, please call our office.

Pain

Instructions regarding pain management will be given at the time of the procedure.  If the patient is experiencing pain please call the office or Dr. Rama directly.

Diet

It is recommended to have a soft diet for the first 6-12 hours after the tooth has been extracted.  Cold foods, i.e., popsicles, milk-shakes, ice-cream, may feel best for the first few hours.  Sharp, crunchy foods and straws should be avoided the first 24 hours.

Oral Hygiene

Brushing and flossing are encourages as normal except around the extraction site.  Please use a dampened washcloth around the area.  Starting the day after, your child can continue with normal brushing, but have them avoid touching the extraction site with the toothbrush.  Warm salt water rinses help keep the area clean and help relieve any discomfort.  Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a large glass of warm water and have your child swish the warm salt water in their mouth for a few seconds (10 to 15) every two to three hours for the rest of the day.