Impacted Tooth Post-Surgery Instructions

Following your procedure, it is important to not disturb the wound. Leave surgical packing in place, as this helps keep the tooth exposed. If packing becomes dislodged or falls out, call the office for instruction: (615) 771-0017.

Bleeding

Bleeding and red-tinged saliva is normal for the first 24 hours. If you have excessive bleeding, bite on a gauze pad for 30 minutes. If excessive bleeding continues, call Coyne Oral Surgery.

Swelling

Swelling is normal and to be expected. Minimize swelling by applying to the cheek an ice pack or bag of ice (insulated by a cloth) as frequently as possible for the first 36 hours post-op.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids. Do not consume any hot liquids or food. On the day of your surgery (post-op), eat soft food and liquids. Resume a normal diet as soon as you feel up to it.

Pain

Begin taking pain medication as the local anesthetic tapers off. For moderate pain:

  • 1-2 Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol every 3-4 hours.
  • Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) may be taken instead of Tylenol.
  • Over-the-counter Ibuprofen (200 mg tablets): 2-3 tablets up to four times per day, not to exceed 3200 mg daily for an adult.
  • Consult Coyne Oral Surgery for individuals under 18.
  • Do not take the two medications at the same time.

Additional notes:

  • Take prescribed medication as directed.
  • Do not take any of the medications discussed on this page if you have a known allergy to the medicines or have been instructed not to take them.
  • Do not drive an automobile or work around machinery.
  • Avoid alcoholic beverages.
  • Pain should subside with each passing day post-op. If pain does not diminish, call our office.

Oral Hygiene

Practice good oral hygiene to promote healing. Use the prescribed Peridex Oral Rinse before bed on the night of your surgery. The day after your procedure, begin using Peridex two times per day: once after breakfast and again before bed.

Rinse for at least 30 seconds and spit. Throughout the day (4-5 times, especially after meals) do a warm salt water rinse (one teaspoon of salt dissolved in a cup of warm water).

Gently brush teeth and the healing abutments.

REMEMBER: Clean wounds heal better and faster.

Activity

Physical activity should be kept to a minimum post-op. Elevated heart rate may cause throbbing or bleeding. Also, remember that you may be temporarily weaker than normal because of the post-operative diet.