Pre- and Post-Extraction Care Instructions
Your Guide to a Smooth and Comfortable Tooth Extraction at Newtown Dental

Before your extraction, there are a few things you can do to ensure the procedure goes smoothly and reduce any potential discomfort:

1. Discuss Your Medical History
   Make sure your dentist is aware of any medications you are taking, any allergies, or any medical conditions that might affect your procedure. This includes conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or bleeding disorders.
2. Take Prescribed Medications
   If your dentist prescribes antibiotics before the procedure (typically in cases of infection or for those with certain medical conditions), take them as directed. This helps prevent infections during or after the extraction.
3. Eat a Light Meal
   If you are only receiving local anesthesia, eat a light meal a few hours before your procedure. However, if you are undergoing sedation, you may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for several hours beforehand. Your dentist will provide specific instructions.
4. Arrange for Transportation (If Sedation is Involved)
   If you are receiving IV sedation or another form of deep sedation, arrange for a family member or friend to drive you home after the procedure, as you will not be able to drive yourself.
5. Prepare for Aftercare
   Stock up on soft foods, ice packs, and over-the-counter pain medications so you have everything you need for a comfortable recovery at home.

After your tooth extraction, it’s important to follow these care instructions to ensure proper healing and avoid complications like dry socket or infection. Here’s what to do after your extraction:

The First 24 Hours:

1. Control Bleeding
   Bite down on a piece of gauze for 30-45 minutes to control any bleeding. If bleeding continues, replace the gauze and bite down for an additional 30 minutes. It’s normal to experience some light bleeding, but if it becomes excessive, contact our clinic.
2. Avoid Straws and Smoking
   Do not use straws or smoke for at least 48 hours, as these actions can dislodge the blood clot from the extraction site, leading to dry socket. Dry socket is a painful condition that can delay healing.
3. Apply Ice for Swelling
   Use an ice pack on the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling. Ice should be used during the first 24 hours only.
4. Rest and Take It Easy
   Avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting for the first 24 hours to prevent any complications. Resting allows your body to focus on healing.
5. Pain Management
   You may experience some discomfort after the extraction. Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen as needed to manage any pain. If stronger pain medication is prescribed, take it as directed.

Day Two and Beyond:

1. Rinse Gently with Salt Water
   After 24 hours, begin rinsing your mouth gently with warm salt water (½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) after meals and before bed. This helps keep the extraction site clean and reduces the risk of infection.
2. Eat Soft Foods
   Stick to soft foods such as yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, and smoothies for the first few days. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate the extraction site. Gradually reintroduce solid foods as you heal.
3. Maintain Oral Hygiene
   Continue brushing and flossing your teeth, but be gentle around the extraction site. Avoid brushing directly over the site for the first few days to prevent disturbing the healing process.
4. Monitor for Signs of Complications
   Keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms, such as excessive pain, swelling, fever, or pus at the extraction site. If you experience any of these signs, contact Newtown Dental immediately for further evaluation.

To ensure a smooth recovery and avoid complications, avoid the following activities during the first few days after your extraction:

• Strenuous Exercise
  Refrain from vigorous exercise or heavy lifting for at least 24-48 hours to prevent complications.
• Drinking Through a Straw
  Using a straw can dislodge the blood clot, leading to dry socket, a painful condition that can delay healing.
• Smoking
  Smoking should be avoided for at least 48 hours after an extraction, as it can delay healing and increase the risk of infection.
• Alcohol and Hot Beverages
  Avoid alcohol and hot drinks for the first few days, as these can irritate the extraction site and slow healing.

While most tooth extractions heal without complications, it’s important to reach out to us if you experience any of the following:

• Excessive Bleeding
  If bleeding continues after the first 24 hours or becomes excessive, contact our office immediately.
• Severe Pain or Swelling
  Some discomfort is normal, but if you experience severe pain, swelling, or a fever, these could be signs of infection or dry socket.
• Difficulty Breathing or Swallowing
  If you experience difficulty breathing, swallowing, or severe swelling around the extraction site, seek medical attention immediately.

At Newtown Dental, we’re here to support you throughout your recovery. If you have any questions or concerns after your extraction, don’t hesitate to contact our office.