Post-Operative Instructions

At EK Dental Surgery, your comfort and health is our highest priority.

Our post-operative instructions are a helpful guide on measures to take after the dental procedure.

If you have any questions and concerns, please don’t hesitate to call us following your treatment.

After Tooth Extraction

• Following a tooth extraction procedure, a blood clot will form in the socket of the extraction site. DO NOT disturb this by vigorous rinsing or poking the site using your tongue or finger as blood clotting is an important part of the natural healing process.
• If the socket starts to bleed after leaving the dental office, place a clean tissue or clothe over the site and apply pressure by biting down. The bleeding usually stops in a few minutes. If the bleeding continues, call your Glen Waverley dentist for further advice.

Numbness

• Due to the application of local anaesthetic, your mouth will still be numb for several hours. Please be careful not to bite your cheek or tongue, as well as chew, pinch or scratch the numb area. It’s important to note that the extraction may cause residual numbness or tingling for around six weeks or longer.

Smoking

• If you smoke, you should stop following the surgery. The cigarette chemicals will reduce the success of the surgery and the natural healing process of the treated area. In addition, the suction can cause the clot to dislodge. Smokers are also at a higher risk of developing a painful “dry socket”, a complication of having a tooth extracted.

Painkillers

• You may experience some discomfort right after the anaesthetic has worn off. Taking over-the-counter medications can help. However, avoid taking aspirin, as this may cause the socket to bleed.

Diet

• After the surgery, eat soft foods for the first two days. After the first two days, you can return to your normal meals as soon as you are capable. Drink plenty of water and avoid drinking alcoholic beverages for 48 hours.

Activity

• Avoid any strenuous activities and be sure to take a good rest for the remainder of the day. If you keep your blood pressure lower, this reduces bleeding and aids healing.