EXTRACTIONS

  Bleeding - maintain light pressure on gauze for up to two hours. Re-application may be necessary later with some areas. Absolutely NO SMOKING, NO STRAWS, NO SPITTING, NO RINSING for at least 24 hours for healthy clot retention. Excessive bleeding as indicated by large gelatinous clots should be reported for inspection.
  Swelling - for difficult extractions, some degree of swelling is expected. The use of ice (cubes in a baggie under a face cloth) is very effective up to 20 minutes at a time several times the first day or so.
  Activity - avoid physical activity to avoid excessive bleeding. Relax, take it easy the rest of the day. Do not brush the area, nor spit out your toothpaste forcefully.
  Medications - take any meds the doctor may have prescribed for you. You probably received long acting anesthetic to prolong your comfort. Ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminaphen (Tylenol) may be taken for mild discomfort. Avoid aspirin.
  Diet - do not eat until the anesthetic has worn off to avoid biting your lips, tongue, or cheeks. A soft, or liquid diet is beneficial for the first 24 hours.
  After 24 hours - resume normal activity with care. Resume a semi-soft (no nachos) diet as tolerated. Rinse with salt water (one cup of warm water and a teaspoon of salt) 4-6 times per day for up to 1-2 days after any stitches you may have had are gone. Unless told otherwise, sutures will usually fall out within 5-10 days.
  Concerns - if you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain or swelling, or if you have any questions, please call our office. In case of serious emergencies, call 911, then Dr. Bolduc at 483-8123 or 483-0301.