After Impacted Tooth Exposure

What to Do After Impacted Tooth Exposure

You shouldn’t touch the wound after impacted tooth exposure. Surgical packing is sometimes placed to ensure that the tooth stays exposed. It should be left in place, but don’t panic if it falls out.

Light bleeding

You can expect light bleeding for 24 hours following the procedure. If you experience heavy bleeding, you can try biting on a piece of gauze for half an hour. If it persists, contact us to tell you what to do next.

Swelling

It’s also normal to experience some swelling. You can reduce it by applying a bag of ice on your cheek. You should keep it pressed against your cheek for as long as possible during the 36 hours following the procedure.

Diet considerations

You shouldn’t consume hot food or drinks. Instead, drink plenty of water and eat soft foods like yogurt and mashed potatoes on the day of the procedure. You can go back to your usual diet after a day unless your doctor recommends otherwise.

Pain medication

Patients should start taking pain medication when they notice that their local anesthetic is starting to wear off. If the pain is moderate, you can take one or two Tylenol or Extra Strength every 3 to 4 hours. Another option is to take two or three 200 mg tablets of Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) every 3 to 4 hours. If the pain is intense, your doctor will prescribe suitable medication.

Cleaning & aftercare

Your wound will heal faster if you keep it clean. A day after the procedure, you can start brushing your teeth gently and rinsing your mouth with salt water several times every day.

Exercising

You should avoid vigorous exercise for a few days after the procedure. When you go back to your workout regimen, stop if you experience bleeding, throbbing, or lightheadedness.