Instructions after implant placement or removal of a tooth, molar, or root fragment
You have undergone a procedure in the mouth such as the removal of a tooth, molar, root fragment, or wisdom tooth. Below you will find all important instructions for a smooth recovery. Please read them carefully and follow them as closely as possible.
Immediately after the procedure
After the treatment you will receive a gauze pad on the wound. Bite firmly on it for 30 minutes to stop the bleeding.
If there is still a small amount of blood afterward or if your saliva appears pink, this is normal.
Do not spit or rinse your mouth during the first 24 hours — this may cause renewed bleeding.
Remove the gauze after half an hour. If the wound continues to bleed, place a new gauze pad or a clean handkerchief on the wound and bite down firmly again for one hour.
Pain and medication
It is normal to feel some pain after the procedure. By following the advice given, the pain is usually well controlled.
Start taking painkillers before the anesthesia has worn off (about 2–4 hours after the procedure).
Most patients have sufficient relief with:
- Paracetamol 1 g up to 4 times per day (every 6 hours)
- Ibuprofen 600 mg up to 3 times per day (every 8 hours)
You may combine both medications if necessary.
Do not use aspirin or medications containing aspirin, as these increase the risk of bleeding.
Sometimes the surgeon may prescribe antibiotics. Take them as prescribed and complete the full course.
Swelling and discomfort
Swelling is normal and usually most noticeable on the second and third day after the procedure.
From day 4, the swelling gradually decreases.
An ice pack on the cheek helps reduce pain and swelling. Hold the ice against the cheek for 10–15 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. Repeat this several times during the first hours after the procedure.
You may temporarily experience difficulty opening your mouth or stiffness in the jaw muscles.
Sleep with your head slightly elevated for the first two nights (for example with an extra pillow).
Avoid heat (sun, sauna) and do not eat hot or hard foods during the first few days.
Eating and drinking
Wait to eat until the anesthesia has completely worn off to prevent accidentally biting your lip, tongue, or cheek or burning yourself with hot drinks.
During the first 2–3 days:
- Eat soft foods, such as soup, mashed potatoes, yogurt, or applesauce
- Avoid hard, spicy, or crumbly foods
- Chew as little as possible on the side of the wound
- Drink enough water, but do not use a straw, as the suction can cause the wound to bleed again.
Oral hygiene
Good oral hygiene is important to prevent infection.
During the first 24 hours:
Do not rinse your mouth, as this increases the risk of bleeding.
After 24 hours:
- Rinse twice daily with the prescribed mouthwash (usually Perio-Aid or Chlorhexidine 0.12%)
- In some cases, rinsing with physiological saline (NaCl 0.9%) is recommended
- Continue brushing your teeth twice a day, but be careful around the wound. If necessary, use a soft (children’s) toothbrush
- Do not smoke or drink alcohol for at least 3 days, preferably 1 week, as this slows healing.
If you have received a syringe for rinsing the wound (after removal of a wisdom tooth in the lower jaw), use it only from day 5 onward to gently rinse the wound with lukewarm water after meals (three times a day).
Stitches
The stitches will dissolve on their own within two weeks.
Sometimes stitches are used that do not dissolve automatically. In that case, you will receive an appointment to have them removed.
A tight or pulling feeling in the cheek is normal and will disappear on its own.
Rest and recovery
Take sufficient rest during the first 2–3 days.
Avoid heavy lifting, bending, straining, and sports.
You can usually resume light activities the following day, but listen carefully to your body.
Only drive a car if you feel well and are not drowsy.
When should you contact us?
Call us if you:
- Have bleeding that does not stop after 30–60 minutes of pressure with a gauze
- Experience increasing swelling or pain after 4 days
- Develop a fever above 38.5°C
- Still have numbness or tingling in the lip or chin after one week that does not improve
- Have difficulty swallowing or opening your mouth
- Or if you are concerned about anything you notice