SLIDE 44 44
Post-extraction tooth socket care
1. The socket should be debrided only If:
a) A periapical lesion is visible on the preoperative radiograph and there was no granuloma attached to the tooth when it was removed, the periapical region should be carefully curetted with a periapical curette to remove the granuloma or cyst. b) Any debris is obvious, such a s calculus, amalgam, o r tooth fragment remaining in the socket, it should be gently removed with a curette or suction tip.
2. The expanded buccolingual plates should be compressed by finger pressure back to their original configuration. 3. The bone should be palpated through the overlying mucosa to check for any sharp, bony projections. If any exist, the mucosa should be reflected and the sharp edges smoothed judiciously with a bone file or trimmed with a rongeur forceps.
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Post-extraction instructions
1. Bleeding :
- Bite firmly on gauze pack for 30-45 minutes.
- In case bleeding continues, another gauze is placed over the wound
for a further hour.
- Do not spit or suck through a straw.
- Do not smoke for 12hrs because this will promote bleeding &
interfere with healing.
- 2. Discomfort and Pain:
- Some discomfort is normal after surgery. It can be controlled but
not eliminated by taking the painkiller (but not salicylates, aspirin), every 4 h, for as long as the pain persists. e.g. Paracetamol 500mg tab.
- 3. Diet:
- The patient’s diet on the day of the surgical procedure must consist of
cold, liquid foods (pudding, yogourt, milk, cold soupe, orange juice, etc.).
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