Anchorage Exposure of an Impacted Tooth Post-Op

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Do not disturb the wound. If 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

Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24 hours. Excessive bleeding which results in your mouth filling rapidly with blood can frequently be controlled by biting with pressure on a moist gauze pad placed directly on the bleeding wound for 30-60 minutes. Do not change the gauze during this time. If bleeding continues please call for further instructions.

Swelling

Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling, apply an ice bag or a plastic bag filled with a wet wash cloth that has been placed in the freezer on the cheek in the area of surgery. Apply the ice in cycles of 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off for the first 36-48 hours following surgery. Keep your head elevated for the first 48 hours during waking and sleeping hours. Use at least two pillows under your head while sleeping to keep your head elevated.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or food. Soft food and liquids should be eaten on the day of surgery. Please stay on a soft diet for the first 5-7 days. 

Pain

You should begin taking pain medication as soon as you feel the local anesthetic wearing off. For moderate pain, and to avoid swelling, Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) may be taken instead of Tylenol. 

Oral Hygiene

Mouth cleanliness is essential to good healing. Clean your mouth thoroughly after each meal beginning the day after surgery. Brush your teeth as best as you can. Rinse with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) 3-4 times a day. Continue this procedure until healing is complete.

REMEMBER: A clean wound heals better and faster.

Activity

Keep physical activities to a minimum immediately following your surgery. If you are considering exercise, throbbing or bleeding may occur. If this occurs, you should discontinue exercising. Be aware that your normal nourishment intake is reduced. Exercise may weaken you. If you get light headed, stop exercising.