(620) 331-4499

1. Control Bleeding
Bite firmly on the gauze pad placed over the surgical site for about 30-45 minutes. Maintain steady pressure to help form a stable blood clot. When removing the gauze, make sure it is slightly moist to avoid pulling the clot out.

Once the gauze has little or no blood on it, it is no longer necessary. Most bleeding should slow down within 3–4 hours after surgery.

→ If you had a dental implant placed at the same time as your extraction, avoid putting direct pressure against the implant, as this can interfere with healing and the stability of the implant.

Do not go to sleep with any gauze in your mouth. If bleeding persists after 24 hours, or if it seems unusually heavy (for example, if your mouth fills quickly with blood), please call our office for further guidance.

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2. Protect the Area During Healing
For up to 2 weeks, do NOT:

• Smoke or vape (this slows healing significantly)

• Use a straw

• Drink alcohol, carbonated beverages, or hot liquids

• Spit excessively or blow your nose hard

• Lift heavy objects or strain

These activities can dislodge the clot and lead to a painful dry socket.

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3. Stick to Soft, Nourishing Foods
Stay with a soft diet for the rest of the day. Try soups, ice cream, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, milkshakes, etc.

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4. Managing Pain and Discomfort
If you were prescribed medication, take it as directed. Otherwise, if you are an adult:

• Take 600mg of ibuprofen (3 tablets of 200mg) every 6 hours as needed.

• If needed, you may also take 1,000mg of acetaminophen (Tylenol) (2 tablets of 500mg) every 6 hours as needed.

⚠️ Do not exceed the following daily maximums:

Ibuprofen (Advil): 3,200 mg per 24 hours

Acetaminophen (Tylenol): 4,000 mg per 24 hours

• For children, you should have been given special instructions in person

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5. When to Call the Office
If pain, swelling, or bleeding worsens, or just doesn’t improve, don’t hesitate to reach out for a re-examination.

Also if ANY other problems or questions do arise, please feel free to contact the office at 620-331-4499.

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6. Swelling and Bruising
Swelling is normal after surgery. Apply an ice pack (15 minutes on, 15 off) for the rest of the day. Keep your head elevated when resting. After 36 hours, moist heat can help with any lingering stiffness or jaw soreness.

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7. Tooth Replacement Options
A missing tooth can affect your ability to chew, your appearance, and the position of surrounding teeth. If you're interested in restoring your smile, here are the three most common options we offer:

• Dental Implants
  A titanium post is placed in the jawbone to replace the root of the missing tooth. Once healed, a crown is attached for a strong, natural-looking result. Implants are the most durable and permanent option.

• Dental Bridge
  A bridge uses the teeth on either side of the gap as anchors to support a false tooth in the middle. This option is non-removable (meaning it does not come in and out of the mouth) and provides good function and aesthetics.

• Removable Partial Denture
  This is a custom-made appliance that clips in and out, replacing one or more missing teeth. It’s a more affordable solution and works well for many patients depending on their needs.

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Choosing how to replace a tooth can be a difficult decision, and we're always happy to answer any questions you have about the process.