After Exposure of Impacted Cuspids
Post-Procedure Care for Exposed Impacted Cuspids
After the exposure of impacted cuspids, the procedure involved lifting the gum to reveal the impacted tooth underneath. Once exposed, an orthodontic bracket was attached to the tooth, and a miniature gold chain was attached to the bracket. The end of the chain was loosely tied to the arch wire or a nearby bracket with a stitch. A follow-up appointment with our orthodontist within five to ten days was recommended to attach an elastic for a light eruptive pulling force on the tooth. Until the follow-up appointment, it is crucial not to disturb the wound or pull at the chain or the securing stitch for the braces. If surgical packing, gauze strip, or perio paste dressing was placed, it should be left alone, as it aids in keeping the tooth exposed. If it becomes dislodged or falls out, there is no need for alarm.
Pain Management After Your Procedure
Pain medication should be started as soon as the local anesthetic wears off. For moderate pain, one or two Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol may be taken every three to four hours. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) may be taken instead of Tylenol. Ibuprofen bought over the counter comes in 200 mg tablets, and two tablets may be taken every three to four hours as needed for pain. Severe pain requires following the prescribed medication as directed.
Bleeding Is Not Uncommon
Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for the first 24 hours. Excessive bleeding, resulting in the mouth filling rapidly with blood, can often be controlled by biting with pressure on a gauze pad placed directly on the bleeding wound for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues, further instructions should be sought by calling.
Diet Considerations After Treatment
Caution is essential when chewing in the arch of the surgery to avoid inadvertently dislodging the chain and bracket. A soft diet is preferred, avoiding hard items like chips, raw vegetables, and ice chewing. Chewing should be done on the back teeth only, and incising with the front teeth should be avoided.
Swelling May Occur
Swelling is a common occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling, applying an ice bag or a plastic bag or towel filled with ice cubes on the cheek in the area of surgery is recommended. Ice can be applied for the first 24 hours, after which it has minimal effect.
Oral Hygiene Recommendations
Mouth cleanliness is essential for sound healing. Cleaning the mouth thoroughly after each meal, beginning the day after surgery, is recommended. Brushing teeth as best as possible and rinsing with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) six times a day should be continued until healing is complete.
Activity Restrictions Following Treatment
Physical activities should be kept to a minimum immediately following surgery. If considering exercise, throbbing or bleeding may occur, and in such cases, exercising should be discontinued. Be aware that normal nourishment intake is reduced, and exercise may weaken you. If you are feeling light-headed, stop exercising. Bluebonnet Oral Surgery and Implants welcomes your questions, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us.