Exposure of an Impacted Tooth

Taking care of the surgical site after exposing an impacted tooth is crucial to promote healing and reduce discomfort. Below are the guidelines provided by Oral Surgery + of Baton Rouge:

Immediate Post-Operative Care

1. Apply Pressure with Gauze: Gently bite down on the gauze placed over the surgical area to help stop bleeding. Keep steady pressure for at least 30 minutes.
2. Leave the Area Undisturbed: Avoid touching the surgical site with your tongue or fingers. Keeping the area untouched supports blood clot formation and reduces the risk of infection.

Pain Management

1. Use Medications as Directed: Take any prescribed pain medications as instructed. Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen may also help relieve discomfort.
2. Apply Ice: Use ice packs on the outside of your face for 20 minutes at a time during the first day to help manage swelling and pain.

Diet

1. Eat Soft Foods: Stick to soft and easy-to-eat foods for the initial few days. Steer clear of foods that are hard, spicy, or crunchy, as they may irritate the area.
2. Keep Hydrated: Drink lots of fluids, but avoid straws, as the suction can disturb healing by loosening blood clots.

Oral Hygiene

1. Start Gentle Rinsing: After 24 hours, begin rinsing gently with a saltwater mix (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 oz warm water). Do this 3–4 times daily, especially after meals.
2. Careful Brushing: Resume brushing your teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush while being cautious around the surgical area.

Activity Restrictions

1. Rest and Relax: Take it easy for the rest of the day. Avoid any physical exertion, heavy lifting, or bending, as these can increase bleeding and swelling.
2. No Smoking: Avoid smoking for at least 24 hours after the procedure. Smoking can slow healing and raise the risk of complications.

Monitoring Your Recovery

1. Bruising and Swelling: It’s normal to experience some swelling and bruising, which should lessen over a week. Keep your head elevated and use ice to help reduce swelling.
2. Bleeding: Light bleeding or oozing is typical. If it becomes persistent or heavy, replace the gauze and apply pressure. Call our office if it doesn’t improve.

Follow-Up Care

1. Keep Follow-Up Visits: Attend all scheduled appointments so your surgeon can check on your recovery and address any concerns.
2. Report Concerns Promptly: Reach out immediately if you notice severe pain, ongoing bleeding, increased swelling, or signs of infection like fever or pus.

Diet

1. Continue with Soft Foods: Maintain a soft-food diet for a few days post-surgery. Avoid anything that could irritate the area, including crunchy, spicy, or hard foods.
2. Hydrate Without Straws: Stay well-hydrated, but do not use straws to avoid disrupting the healing process.

By following these care instructions, you’ll support a smooth recovery and encourage proper healing after impacted tooth exposure. If you have any concerns, reach out to Oral Surgery + of Baton Rouge. We’re here to help guide you through your recovery every step of the way.