After Exposure of Impacted Teeth

Do not disturb the wound. If a surgical packing was placed, leave it alone. The pack helps to keep the tooth exposed. If it gets dislodged or falls out, do not get alarmed.

Bleeding

Do not disturb the wound. If a surgical packing was placed, do not disturb it. Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24 hours. Bleeding can be controlled by placing a gauze pad over the incisions and keeping direct pressure on this for 20-30 minutes. Change the gauze pads as required. If bleeding continues after 24 hours, please call the office for further instructions.

Swelling is Common After Exposure of Impacted Teeth

Swelling after exposure of impacted teeth can be controlled by the immediate and extended use of ice packs. Ice packs, or baggies filled with ice chips, should be applied to the sides of the face overlying the surgical sites. The ice packs should be utilized on a 30-minutes on / 30-minutes off schedule. These are very helpful for 48-72 hours. Ice is extremely helpful in managing swelling and pain control during this time frame.

After 72 hours, the application of moist heat to the skin overlying the surgical site can be beneficial in reducing the size of the swelling.

Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is essential to good healing. You can brush your teeth the night of surgery, but avoid rinsing. The day after surgery, you should begin rinsing with warm salt water on a 4-5 times per day basis (especially after meals). Maintaining excellent hygiene over the healing time frame will help avoid potential complications.

Physical Activity After Exposure of Impacted Teeth

Keep physical activity to a minimum on the day of surgery. As you feel stronger, return to your normal activities on a gradual basis.

For information regarding other surgical instructions, please review this page.