Extraction with Site Preservation Post-Operative Instructions

BLEEDING: Gauze must be placed firmly and directly over the surgical site and left undisturbed for ½ hour. If oozing continues, replace the gauze pad every ½ hour until bleeding stops. Do not rinse or spit for the first 24 hours. Occasional bleeding from the site for the first 24 hours is not unusual.

SWELLING: Mild swelling is common, and may not peak until the third postoperative day. To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to the outside of your face for twenty minutes on and twenty minutes off regularly in the first 48 hours. In addition, elevate your head using 2-3 pillows while resting.

PAIN: Some discomfort is normal following oral surgery. There can also be some stiffness to the jaw and sensitivity to the adjacent teeth. If you have no history of stomach ulcer or allergy, Ibuprofen 600 mg (3 over the counter 200 mg tablets) taken every 6 hours with some protective food will suffice. Do not take more than 2400 mg in 24 hours. If you are unable to take Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is appropriate. Use dosage guidelines on the package.

RINSING: DO NOT rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours. After 24 hours you should rinse gently 4-5 times daily with warm salt water solution (1/2 teaspoon salt in glass of water). Dr. Boerman may prescribe Peridex Oral Rinse which you should start the day after surgery.

DIET: For the first 24 hours, lukewarm or cooler soft foods are encouraged. For the following 2 weeks, avoid chewing directly on the surgical site. Do not use straws for drinking.

SMOKING: Slows healing process and should be avoided for at least 5 days.

SITE PRESERVATION (Grafting for Implants): Patients having site preservation do not have dissolvable sutures and will need to return to the office for suture removal. This appointment is usually two weeks following the procedure. It is not uncommon for particles of bone material to dislodge during the first two weeks post operatively. During the healing period your sutures may loosen, causing the membrane material to shift. This can cause your gums to feel irritated or sore. This irritation should subside once the sutures are removed.

ROUTINE DENTAL APPOINTMENTS: We recommend that you do not have dental hygiene appointments for 3 months after extraction with site preservation, to avoid getting bacteria into the site. In addition, do NOT use an electric tooth brush for 2 weeks.

IN CASE OF POST OPERATIVE COMPLICATIONS PLEASE CALL OUR OFFICE: (802) 860-6725 OR 1-800-807-2027