Some teeth are indicated for extraction because they are severely decayed and are too large to be restored, or if the tooth has an abscess or trauma. Sometimes it is indicated to extract a permanent tooth prior to orthodontic treatment. We perform both baby tooth extractions and simple extractions of permanent teeth if indicated.

After Tooth Extraction/Post-Op Instructions

This will require special care and attention over the next few days. Please follow the instructions checked below. Contact us with questions or if unusual symptoms develop.

• Numbness: the mouth will be numb approximately for two to four hours. Watch to see that your child does not bite, scratch, or injure the cheek, lips, or tongue during this time.
• Bleeding: bleeding was controlled before we discharged your child, but some occasional oozing (pink or blood-tinged saliva) may occur. Hold gauze with firm pressure against the surgical site until oozing has stopped. You may need to change the gauze or repeat this step. If bleeding continues for more than 24 hours, contact us.
• Surgical Site Care: Today, do not disturb the surgical site. Do not stretch the lips or cheeks to look at the area. Do not rinse vigorously, use mouthwash or probe the area with fingers or other objects. Beginning tomorrow, you may rinse with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt with one cup water) after meals.
• Sutures: Sutures (stitches) may be placed to help control bleeding and promote healing. These sutures may dissolve and would not need to be removed or they may need to be removed at a follow up visit. If the stitches come out in the first 48 hours, call our office.
• Daily Activities: Today, avoid physical exercise and exertion. Return to normal activities as tolerated. Smoking is never good for one’s health and may delay healing following oral surgery.
• Diet: After all bleeding has stopped, the patient may drink cool non-carbonated liquids but should NOT use a straw. Encourage fluids to help avoid dehydration. Cold soft foods (ice cream, jello, pudding, yogurt) are ideal the first day. By the second day, consistency of foods can progress as tolerated. Until healing is more established, avoid foods such as nuts, sunflower seeds, and popcorn that may get lodged into surgical areas.
• Oral Hygiene: Keeping the mouth clean is essential. Today, teeth may be brushed and flossed gently, but avoid stimulating the surgical site. Soreness and swelling may not permit vigorous brushing of all areas, but please make every effort to clean the teeth within the bounds of comfort.

Pain:  Because discomfort is expected, you may give your child acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) before the numbness wears off. DO NOT give aspirin to your child. Follow the instructions on the bottle for dosing based upon your child’s age/weight. If pain is not relieved by one of these medications, a prescription may be needed. Take prescription pain medication with a small amount of food to avoid nausea.