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Post-Operative Care

Post-Operative Instructions: Tooth Extractions

When you have a tooth extracted, a blood clot will form in the empty tooth socket. This blood clot is important in ensuring that your mouth heals without any complications such as dry sockets.

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Protect the Blood Clot (First 48 Hours)

  • Do NOT rinse your mouth forcefully
  • Do NOT use straws
  • Do NOT smoke or vape
  • Do NOT touch the extraction site with your tongue or fingers
AFTER YOUR PROCEDURE

Post-Operative Care, Step by Step

01

Bleeding

  • Mild bleeding or oozing is normal for up to 24 hours after your procedure.
  • Bite firmly on gauze for 30–60 minutes.
  • Replace gauze every 30–45 minutes as needed.
  • Keep your head elevated while resting.
  • Avoid lying flat.
  • Limit physical activity for 2–3 days.
02

Swelling

  • The swelling that occurs is a normal phenomenon and will peak within two to three days.
  • Place an ice pack on your face externally (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) for the first 24 hours.
  • Swelling can persist for several days before fading away.
03

Pain & Discomfort

  • Some degree of discomfort is to be anticipated after the effects of anesthesia subside.
  • Follow the instructions on your medications precisely.
  • Do not exceed the maximum dosage.
  • Do not drive or operate heavy machinery when taking pain medications.
04

Infection Prevention

  • While infections are uncommon, proper care is essential.
  • Take all prescribed antibiotics until completed.
  • Maintain good oral hygiene.
  • If you take birth control pills, consider using an additional form of contraception during antibiotic treatment.
05

Sutures (Stitches)

  • Dissolvable sutures tend to dissolve between 1 and 7 days.
  • Non-dissolvable stitches may be removed within 7–10 days (or as advised by your doctor).
06

After Sedation or Anesthesia

  • If you received IV sedation or general anesthesia — for 24 hours after your procedure:
  • Do NOT drive or operate machinery.
  • Do NOT drink alcohol.
  • Do NOT engage in strenuous activity.

Rest at home and allow your body to recover.

07

Diet Guidelines

First 24 hours

  • Stick to clear liquids (water, apple juice, ginger ale).
  • After Day 1, soft foods such as: Yogurt · Applesauce · Mashed potatoes · Scrambled eggs · Pasta

Avoid for at least 2 weeks

  • Popcorn, nuts, seeds, chips
  • Hard or crunchy foods
08

Oral Hygiene & Brushing

  • Resume gentle brushing the evening of surgery or the next day.
  • Avoid the surgical area for the first 24 hours.
  • Do NOT spit forcefully.
09

Rinsing Instructions

  • Do NOT rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours.
  • After 24 hours, rinse gently with: Prescribed mouthwash OR warm salt water (½ teaspoon salt in 8 oz water).
  • Rinse 2–3 times daily for 1 week.
WARNING SIGNS

When to Call Us — Right Away

Contact our office right away if you experience:

  • Bleeding that does not stop after 60 minutes of firm pressure
  • Severe pain not controlled by medication
  • Persistent nausea or vomiting
  • Swelling that worsens after 72 hours or affects swallowing
  • Foul taste or discharge from the site
  • Fever above 101°F

Call: (203) 327-7498

95 Morgan Street, Suite 1A
Stamford, CT 06905

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When to Contact Us

Stamford Dental Studio provides Invisalign treatment for patients looking for a discreet alternative to traditional braces. Dr. Joshua Matatov can evaluate your smile and discuss whether Invisalign is a good option for you.

Our office is located at 95 Morgan Street, Suite 1A, Stamford, CT 06905. Call (203) 327-7498 or request an appointment to get started.

Stamford Dental Studio

Welcome to Stamford Dental Studio. Our passionate team is fully committed to delivering personalized, top-tier dental care that you genuinely deserve.

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95 Morgan Street, Suite 1A Stamford, CT 06905

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