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• DO NOT SMOKE FOR 12 HOURS: Smoking will promote bleeding and interfere with healing.
• Do not brush the extraction area for the first 24 hours after surgery. After that you may brush gently to keep the area clean.
• Avoid all rinsing for 24 hours after extraction. This is to insure the formation of a healing blood clot which is essential to proper wound healing. Disturbance of this clot can lead to increased bleeding or the loss of the blood clot. If the clot is lost, a painful condition called dry socket may occur. Use warm salt water rinses after 24 hours to keep the area clean.
• DO NOT SPIT OR SUCK THROUGH A STRAW: This will promote bleeding and may dislodge the blood clot causing a dry socket.
• BLEEDING: When you leave the office, you will be given verbal instructions regarding the control of postoperative bleeding. A rolled up gauze pad will be placed on the extraction site and you will be asked to change this dressing every 20 minutes or so depending on the amount of bleeding that is occurring. It is normal for some blood to ooze from the area of surgery. If bleeding still continues, you may fold a wet tea bag in half and bite down on it. Tea contains Tannic Acid , a styptic, which may help to reduce the bleeding.
• PAIN: Some discomfort is normal after surgery. Prescription medication, which may have been prescribed to you, should be taken as prescribed.
• SWELLING: To prevent swelling, apply an ice pack or a cold towel to the outside of your face in the area of the extraction during the first 12 hours. Apply alternately, 20 minutes on then 20 minutes off, for an hour or longer if necessary.
• DIET: Eat normal regular meals as soon as you are able after surgery. Cold, soft food such as ice cream or yogurt may be the most comfortable for the first day. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids.

REPORT ANY UNUSUAL OCCURRENCES IMMEDIATELY !