Keep the gauze in place with pressure for 30 minutes after leaving the surgery. This helps to minimise any bleeding. Oozing and blood stained saliva is normal in the first 24 hours. If bleeding persists, apply steady pressure to the site with a new piece of gauze for another 30 minutes.

Avoid spitting or rinsing for the first 24 hours, and do not dab the surgical area with tissues as this will promote more bleeding. Do not rinse your mouth vigorously for the first 48 hours as this may result in loss of blood clot and cause bleeding or significant pain. After this time, you may gently rinse your mouth with salt water after meals until the wound heals.

Moderate pain, bruising and swelling is expected up to 2 weeks post-surgery. This will generally peak approximately 3 days after the procedure.

Take your pain medications within 1-2 hours of procedure, then 4-6 hourly for the firstday and the day after surgery. We recommend a combination of Ibuprofen (eg. Nurofen, Advil) and paracetamol or paracetamol/codeine combinations (eg. Panadol, Panadeine). These can be taken together for increased effect. Avoid aspirin for pain relief as it may promote bleeding. Analgesics may be required during the first 2 weeks.

If you were prescribed antibiotics, please take these as instructed.

Avoid hot food/liquid until the numbness goes away. Avoid disturbing the extraction sites. Stick to ‘soft’ foods (eg. fish, pasta, chicken) for one week and chew on the opposite side from the extraction. Hot (temperature) or spicy foods should be avoided during this time. If food particles trap in the extraction site, rinse the food out gently with warm salt water.

Do not smoke and avoid alcohol during the first 5 days.

Try to rest for the first 2-3 days, and avoid physical exercise for the first 24 hours.

Swelling can be reduced with the use of ice packs over the face - apply 10 minutes on, 10 minutes off for 1 hour, 3 times a day for the first 4 days.

It is not uncommon to notice sharp bone fragments which occur around the surgical site up to 3 months following the procedure. These will generally resolve by themselves and not require a further procedure.

If you have any further concerns or experience excruciating pain, please contact the practice so we can ensure you are looked after.

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