Surgical Extractions

Possible Complications

Swelling: Swelling is normal during the first 48 hours and gradually decreases over the 7 to 10 days following surgery. If swelling continues to increase after this period, contact us for an appointment at the clinic.

Infection: An infection may occur, manifested by a rapid increase in swelling after 48 hours or by radiating pain that begins 3 days or more after surgery and is not relieved by prescribed painkillers. In either case, make an appointment at the clinic.

Dry Socket: The socket is the hole in the gum left by the tooth extraction, usually protected by a blood clot. A dry socket occurs when this clot is dislodged before the extraction site has had a chance to heal, leading to intense pain that usually starts 3 days after the procedure. If this happens, schedule an appointment at the clinic.

Bruising: It is normal to develop a bruise on the cheek, which will disappear after about a week.

Difficulty Opening the Mouth: You may have difficulty opening your mouth, which can last for a few weeks. After 24 hours, apply warm compresses to the cheeks to ease this discomfort.

Bleeding: Light bleeding is normal. Follow the post-operative instructions. However, if bleeding remains heavy the next day, schedule an appointment at the clinic.

Paresthesia: Rarely, after anesthesia, you may experience altered sensation in the lip, tongue, or chin (paresthesia). In 90% of cases, this sensation will disappear within a few months. However, in 10% of cases, this altered sensation may become permanent.

Pain: Pain is normal. Take the prescribed painkillers as directed.

Instructions to Follow

Gauze: Bite on the gauze for 30 minutes after surgery. Do not touch the treated area with your fingers or tongue.

Rinsing and Oral Hygiene: Do not rinse your mouth for 12 hours following the procedure. However, it is permitted to drink water and cool liquids immediately. Do not brush your teeth for 24 hours after the procedure; afterward, brush them gently, avoiding the surgical sites.

Saltwater Rinses: Saltwater rinses (2 teaspoons of salt in 1 liter of water) are recommended, especially after meals, twwo days after surgery. Rinse your mouth three times a day for the next 7 days to promote healing. Do not spit forcefully; instead, let the liquid gently fall out of your mouth. Traditional mouthwashes (such as Scope® or Listerine®) are not recommended as they contain alcohol.

Bleeding: It is normal for your saliva to be slightly blood-tinged for a few days. If significant bleeding occurs, fold the provided gauze and place it directly on the operated area, maintaining continuous pressure for an hour or more.

Swelling: Swelling is common, reaching its peak within 48 hours of the procedure and gradually decreasing over the next 4 to 5 days. Apply ice intermittently for the first 48 hours, 15 minutes per hour. Sleeping in a semi-upright position in the days following surgery will help reduce swelling. After the first 48 hours, if swelling persists, apply warm, moist compresses for 15 minutes per hour.

Skin Discoloration: Skin discoloration (bruising) may occur and will fade after about a week.

Stitches: Dissolvable stitches will typically dissolve within 4 to 14 days after the procedure.

Diet: Cold or lukewarm liquids can be consumed during the first 4 to 6 hours after returning home. After that, a soft diet is recommended. It is important to have three meals a day as soon as you return home. Here are some examples of suitable foods: soups, broths, creams, pasta, well-cooked and/or pureed vegetables, cereals, oatmeal, etc.

Emergency: Do not hesitate to contact us if you experience any issues.