Extraction

It is normal to have a taste of blood inside your mouth. You may safely swallow the blood or drink any liquid.

In order to effectively stop the bleeding, maintain a steady pressure (bite down) on a gauze placed over the extraction site for at least one hour. Change the gauze every 20 to 30 minutes.

Take the recommended pain relieving medication as indicated at least during the first 24 hours.

Take it easy for the rest of the day. Do not exert yourself physically.

Eat soft nutritious food after the extraction. Use liquid supplements (i.e. shakes) if you find it difficult to chew. Good nutrition will help with healing.

DO NOT RINSE, DO NOT SPIT, DO NOT DRINK WITH A STRAW.

Any pressure inside the mouth could cause the bleeding to start again. This only applies to the first 24 hours after the extraction.

Swelling could increase gradually within the next three days and will slowly subside if warm moist compresses are placed over the swollen areas.

To keep your jaw from getting stiff, practice opening your mouth as wide as you can at least five times a day for the first few days.