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Post-tooth extraction instructions

1. Bite down gently on the gauze for about 1 hour, applying moderate pressure.
2. Do not spit out blood or saliva, as the force can cause increased bleeding. Swallowing blood and saliva is safe. After removing the gauze, continue to avoid spitting to prevent further bleeding.
3. There’s no need to change the gauze unless it is soaked. Placing dry gauze will absorb more blood and prolong bleeding.
4. After removing the gauze, take any medications prescribed without re-biting or using gauze again.
5. You can brush your teeth as usual but do so gently. Rinse your mouth lightly; avoid vigorous swishing to prevent dislodging the blood clot that protects the wound, which can lead to renewed bleeding and delayed healing.
6. Do not use any mouthwash as this can irritate the wound and slow healing.
7. You may eat normally, but consider choosing soft foods that require minimal chewing. Avoid spicy or strong-flavored foods.
8. Light exercise is fine, but avoid strenuous activities as increased blood pressure can lead to bleeding.
9. **Do Not Disturb the Wound:** Avoid using cotton swabs or any other tools to probe the wound, as this can disrupt healing and lead to infections.

Following these guidelines will help promote a smoother recovery after teeth removal procedure.

Facts About Wound Healing:

• Blood Clotting: After a surgical or extraction site, bleeding usually stops through the blood clotting process within about 5-10 minutes. A clot forms to seal the wound, and some light ooze may occur, which is normal.
• Importance of Blood Clot: Desirable wound healing must have blood clot filled in the wound cavity; this blood clot will change into normal tissue later. Therefore, it is not advisable to rinse vigorously until the blood clot comes off or to pick at the wound forming a hole. Having a hole in the wound can cause food to get trapped in it. However, having a slight hole with some food particles stuck is normal, as the body will repair and heal completely. During the healing process, there will be yellowish crust on top of the wound, which is tissue that has formed, similar to scabs on the skin. This is not pus and may have a slight odor but will go away on its own when the wound heals completely.
• Replacing Gauze: If bleeding persists, use a clean piece of gauze soaked with clean water, wring it out, and bite down gently to avoid further blood absorption.
• Medications: The medication provided will be given according to the dentist’s orders/opinions. Generally, the prescribed medication will include pain relievers and antibiotics (anti-inflammatory medication). Pain relievers should be taken as necessary, while antibiotics are meant to prevent or treat infections, and it is important to take the full course (til empty).
• Brushing Teeth: Oral hygiene care must be done strictly. Brushing your teeth is sufficient to keep your mouth clean, and there is no need to use any mouthwash. However, if you do not brush your teeth at all, it may lead to an unclean mouth and cause inflammation in the wound. It is also strongly advised NOT to brush on the area of the extracted tooth, as this may interfere with the healing process.
• Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the cheek can help reduce swelling; this method is recommended for use only within the first 48 hours. Pain from the tooth extraction may occur for 1-3 days, and if it involves impacted wisdom teeth, it may last longer. In the initial phase, pain relievers should be used to alleviate the discomfort. During the subsequent period, pain may subside, but if you use your tongue to touch the area, it may still hurt, which is considered normal. After one week, pain usually resolves, and after 3-4 weeks, the wound will heal completely.

       Understanding these facts will help you better manage your recovery process after tooth removal procedure.