Oral Surgery

Oral surgery is a form of dentistry that treats a wide spectrum of diseases, injuries and defects around the head, neck, face, and jaw. Most common oral services include extraction (moderate to difficult, including wisdom teeth), reconstructive dental oral surgery and placing dental implants.

Care of the Mouth After Extraction

• Bleeding: Following extractions, some bleeding is to be expected. Put constant, firm pressure on the gauze in your mouth by biting on it for one hour. If bleeding is persistent, place a new, slightly moistened gauze pad over the area and bite down firmly for an additional half-hour.
• Absolutely no smoking or alcohol consumption for 24 hours post-operative. These actions can dislodge the clot, leading to continued bleeding and other complications.
• Do not spit or suck through a straw.
• Dry socket is localized inflammation of the tooth socket due to the loss of the blood clot. This can happen 3-5 days post-extraction and will cause increased pain and discomfort.
• Brush and floss with care around the extraction area.
• Do not rinse your mouth for 24 hours after the extraction, gently rinse with warm salt water, using one teaspoon of salt in a half glass of very warm water. Be careful not to swish vigorously.
• Food: Soft diet is advisable during the first 24 hours.
• No exercise or heavy lifting. Resting is the best post-operative. Elevate head when lying down.
• Swelling: If swelling becomes evident, place ice wrapped in a towel on the affected facial area for 30 minutes on, 30 minutes off.
• Pain: For mild to moderate pain, use any non-aspirin type of medication that you prefer. If your dentist prescribed pain medication, use as directed. If the pain becomes intolerable, please call the office.
• Please contact our office:
  • if you experience swelling that increases more than 3 days post-operative;
  • if you have fever beyond 101 degrees;
  • pain that increases and is extreme 3-5 days post-operative

  Proper care following surgical procedures will improve recovery and prevent complications.

  Suffer no more! Make an appointment with our office for an examination.