The first 24 hours

Bleeding: bite on the gauze for 30 to 60 minutes. If it continues, place a clean gauze and bite down firmly. Light oozing is normal. Avoid spitting, rinsing hard or using a straw.

Pain: take the prescribed or recommended medication as soon as possible, without waiting for the pain to become strong.

Swelling: ice on the cheek, 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off, during the first 24 hours.

Rest: rest, keep your head slightly raised, avoid physical activity.

Eating (days 1 to 3)

Choose: soft, cold or lukewarm foods. Yogurt, applesauce, purée, lukewarm soup, a smoothie without a straw.

Avoid: hot, hard, crunchy, spicy or acidic foods. No alcohol.

Hygiene

Day 1: do not brush the treated area, do not rinse.

From day 2: brush gently, avoiding the area. Rinse gently with warm salt water (½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of water), 2 to 3 times a day.

Avoid for 3 to 5 days

Smoking or vaping
Drinking through a straw
Spitting hard
Touching the wound with your fingers or tongue
Intense physical activity

What is normal

Swelling (at its peak after 48 to 72 hours), bruising, jaw stiffness, light bleeding, discomfort when opening the mouth. These symptoms are temporary.

When to call the clinic

Severe pain that increases after 3 to 4 days
A persistent bad taste or unpleasant odour
Fever
Heavy bleeding that does not decrease
Significant swelling that gets worse
Difficulty swallowing or breathing

Medication

Follow the clinic's instructions. Finish the antibiotics if they are prescribed. Do not exceed the recommended doses.

In summary

Protect the blood clot: no straw, no hard rinsing, no tobacco
Keep the area clean without irritating it
Reduce inflammation and pressure: ice and rest

Every recovery is different. A question? 450-777-0373.

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