Instructions following an extraction

Take it easy for the rest of the day avoiding exercise.

Avoid very hot and cold foods.

Be careful not to bite your tongue or cheek.

Avoid rinsing for 6 hours as this may dislodge the clot that has formed in the socket.

After 6 hours, start rinsing regularly with a warm salt-water mouth rinse. This will help to keep the socket clean.

Avoid eating on that side of the mouth and eat soft foods.

Clean and brush as normal but be slightly more gentle around the extraction site.

If bleeding is persistent and profuse use the gauze provided and place it over the socket. Bite firmly on this for 30 minutes. If the bleeding still persists contact the dentist. Please note for the first day there will be a little blood mixing in with the saliva which is not to be worried about.

Avoid smoking for 5 days after the extraction. Smoking can lead to an infected socket.

Avoid taking aspirin for pain relief.

Discomfort is normal for a few days after the tooth has been extracted. If pain continues after this time and is not getting better then contact the dentist.

If stitches have been placed you may need to see the dentist for a review to have these removed.