Bite firmly on the gauze for 30 minutes after your appointment. Slight oozing from the socket is considered normal. If bleeding is persistent, apply pressure to the wound by biting firmly on gauze or a clean handkerchief for at least another 30 minutes.

Do NOT rinse or spit out on the day of having teeth removed. The blood clot that forms immediately following the extraction is an important scaffold for healing to take place, rinsing or spitting may destroy this clot, delaying healing, and leading to formation of a ‘dry socket’.

The day after your extraction you may rinse gently using a glass of warm water with half a teaspoon of salt for 2 minutes, 4 or 5 times a day for seven days. Clean your teeth normally, but avoid the wound area.

Do NOT smoke following your extraction –smoking prevents blood flow to the extraction site, and may result in a painful, infected “dry socket”.

You may eat and drink slowly once local anaesthetic has worn off, but avoid the wound area, and avoid hard or crunchy foods, or extremely hot drinks.

Avoid alcohol and excessive exercise for the rest of the day. After an extraction it is best to rest. Keep your head elevated with an extra pillow until the next morning.

As soon as you get home apply ice in a plastic bag, wrapped in a cloth, to the outside of the face adjacent to the operation site for up to 60 minutes, this will help to minimise swelling.

It is important that any medication prescribed is taken as directed. Paracetamol (Panadol) or Ibuprofen (Nurofen) taken 4-6 hourly as required will help to control post-operative discomfort. Do NOT exceed the recommended dose of any medications.

Anytime you suspect the pain is abnormally intense, call the clinic right away.