Before the procedure
- It is important not to take aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) during the week before the extraction and the week that follows.
- Avoid smoking from the day before, if possible.
- Eat before you come: you should not arrive on an empty stomach.
During the procedure
The length of the procedure depends on the number of teeth to be removed; we can give you an estimate so that you can plan your schedule accordingly.
It is painless: you mainly feel pressure and vibration, and you may sometimes hear unusual noises or cracking sounds. This is perfectly normal.
In the hours that follow
- Be careful not to bite yourself until the anaesthetic has worn off.
- Apply ice as soon as possible (place a cloth between the ice and your skin), 20 minutes every hour for 2 days.
- No smoking while the wound is healing.
- Rest as much as possible; no intense physical activity for 24 hours.
- Avoid talking too much and keep your teeth together; avoid any sucking or suction movements on the wound(s).
- Follow your prescription carefully and sleep with your head raised (one extra pillow behind your head).
In the days that follow
Oral hygiene
Good oral hygiene is the key to fast, high-quality healing.
- For the first 3 days: gently apply the Hyalugel healing spray to the treated area(s), and continue your usual brushing without toothpaste in the areas that are not painful.
- After 3 days: start using toothpaste again and brushing the treated area(s) by hand.
- Mouthwash should be started 48 hours after the procedure; let it work without swishing it around.
Diet
- Preferably cold or lukewarm food for 48 hours, to prevent bleeding.
- There is no absolute restriction: the stitches are there to protect the wound(s).
- Eat what you can, preferably soft or semi-liquid food.
- Ideally food that is easy to chew, without grains or seeds.
- Avoid spicy, very salty or vinegary foods.
Normal after-effects
- Difficulty opening your mouth for a few weeks: this will gradually ease.
- Swelling and bruising are possible: this is a normal inflammatory reaction.
- Sensitivity to cold may occur: this is temporary.
- Tender gums: continue with the mouthwash and the healing gel if needed.
- Slight spontaneous bleeding may occur: if necessary, apply pressure with a gauze pad for 1 hour.
- An unpleasant taste in the mouth.
- Bleeding when brushing around the stitches: this is normal, brush gently. The stitches are dissolvable and may fall out on their own.
If you are concerned
If you experience unbearable pain, prolonged bleeding or any signs that worry you, do not hesitate to contact your dental surgeon. If the practice is closed, contact an on-call doctor or an on-call dental surgeon (you can obtain the list by calling the departmental dental council on Sundays and public holidays).
Swelling or bruising can occur, although this is not common. Depending on your occupation or activities, bear this in mind and lighten your schedule the following week if necessary.
