Welcome to M. Kramer Irby, DDS - Dentist for the Baton Rouge area.
T (225) 926-1059
Email: info@irbydental.com
M. Kramer Irby, DDS
642 Shadows Lane Baton Rouge, LA 70806
Post Tooth Extraction Instructions
Simple home care procedures should be practiced to help promote healing, prevent any complications and make you more comfortable.
When a tooth is extracted, the body responds by forming a blood clot in the socket. This is a normal healing process. It is important to avoid activities that would disturb the clot.
Do not smoke, rinse your mouth vigorously, drink through a straw or clean the teeth next to the healing tooth socket for the rest of the day. These activities could dislodge the clot and delay healing which could lead to a dry socket.
Reduce strenuous activity for 24 hours after an extraction. This will reduce bleeding and help your blood clot to form.
After surgery a gauze pack is placed on the extraction site to prevent excessive bleeding and confine the blood while clotting takes place.
Leave the gauze pack in place for 15-30 minutes after leaving the office. Do not chew on the pack. If bleeding or oozing continues after the pack is removed you may insert another gauze pack.
Apply pressure firmly for 30 minutes. Repeat if necessary. Do not spit or suck on the extraction site. Remember, a little blood mixed with saliva appears to look more than it actually is.
You may experience some discomfort and notice some swelling. You may apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Gently rinse with warm salt water the day after surgery (1/2 teaspoon salt with warm water). It is important to rinse after meals to prevent particles out of the surgery site.
Medication may be prescribed to control pain and infection. It is best to take with food to prevent nausea.
Drink a lot of liquids and eat soft nutritious foods for the first day. Avoid alcoholic beverages and hot liquids. You may begin eating solid food the next day or as soon as you can chew comfortably. Try to chew on the opposite side for 2 days.
It is important to brush and floss at least twice a day. To eliminate bad breath & reshen your mouth brush your tongue.
If you have any problems please call the office at (225) 926-1059.
