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After an extraction, how do I take care of the extraction site? Answer: While you're recovering from your surgery, we have some suggestions to make you more comfortable and speed healing of the extraction site. You're going to be a little sore for a day or so. If we have prescribed medications, take them as directed. If you were perscribed antibiotics, make sure you take them until they are completely gone. Anytime you suspect the pain is abnormally intense, call the office right away. Swelling can be controlled by ice packs. Apply packs for 15 to 20 minutes every hour - no more than that. Expect some bleeding. A gauze pad pressed gently over the area will usually minimize bleeding. A blood clot will begin to form within an hour after surgery, and you must take special care with it for 24 hours. (The clot furnishes structure for new tissue and, eventually, bone.) Don't chew on it, brush it, or even rinse right away. Avoid sucking through a straw. Avoid alcohol and smoking for as long as possible. This could dislodge the clot. After 24 hours you can keep the extraction site clean by rinsing gently with warm water. Most important: call us with any concerns or questions you may have during your recovery period. |