Dental Extractions (Teeth Removals)

If the tooth had an adequate root, gel foam (a dissolving white packing), will be placed in the socket.  If this material becomes displaced, push back into socket area with a clean thumb or finger.  Otherwise, you may disturb the clot.

• Do not rinse for several hours and keep fingers and tongue away from socket.  Tylenol or another non-aspirin product is indicated for discomfort. 
• Some bleeding is to be expected.  If unusual, place gauze firmly over the area of extraction and bite down or hold in place for ten minutes.  A tea bag dipped in hot water and cooled, may be used in place of gauze.
• We suggest a soft diet of pudding, ice cream, oatmeal, and scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, soft fries, apple sauce, and liquids without a straw. Resume a normal diet the following day.
• Vigorous athletic activities such as football, soccer, and swimming, etc. are to be discontinued until day after extractions.

Permanent Adult Tooth Extraction – Special Instructions

• NO straw for 72 hrs, suction can result in a DRY SOCKET
• NO foods with small chunks (chicken noodle soup, rice, etc.)
• NO heavy rinsing for 24 hrs
• AFTER 24 hrs they can rinse with lukewarm salt water
• NO strenuous activity for 24 to 48 hrs
• If swelling occurs, they may ice for 15 to 30 minutes on/off as needed
• If pain relief is needed, you can safely alternate Tylenol with Motrin every 4 hrs

If excessive pain or bleeding occurs, please contact Dr. Girdlestone's office as soon as possible.

Caution Please Following a Dental Procedure

Your child received local injection of "novacaine" for dental treatment.  This makes the lips and cheeks numb on the side it was used.  Children who do not always understand the effects of a local anesthetic sometimes may suck or chew on the numb lip or cheek, thereby causing laceration of the tissue.  Although this is not a serious thing, it is uncomfortable and we ask that you please watch the child very closely for approximately two hours following the appointment.