Extraction / Implant Placement

Bleeding & Gauze

The doctor may ask you to bite on a gauze pad for 45 minutes after the appointment. If bleeding or oozing continues, insert another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may need to repeat this several times.

Protect the Site

• Do not rinse or spit for 48 hours after surgery.
• Keep your fingers and tongue away from the socket or surgical area.
• Bone graft will be covered and sutured, but tiny granules may come out during the healing process (it will feel like sand).

Swelling & Discomfort

• Use ice packs on the surgical area (side of face) for the first 48 hours; apply ice 20 minutes on and 10 minutes off. (Bags of frozen peas work well.)
• For mild discomfort, take Tylenol® or ibuprofen every 6 hours.

Eating & Drinking

• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Your diet should consist mainly of soft, easily swallowed foods and cool drinks.
• Avoid anything that might get stuck in your teeth, so no seeds, nuts, rice, popcorn, or similar foods.

Cleaning

• You may brush your teeth the day of the procedure—just avoid brushing the extraction site. After 24 hours you may begin very gently brushing around the extraction site to keep it clean.
• After 48 hours, use a warm salt water rinse following meals for the first week to flush out food particles and debris (mix ½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water). No hard gargling—just soft swishes.

Activity

• Avoid strenuous activity and do not exercise for at least 3–4 days after surgery.