1. Take things easy for a few hours and avoid strenuous exercise.

2. Do not rinse the mouth for at least 6 hours.

3. Avoid HOT fluids, alcohol, hard or chewy foods.Choose cool drinks and soft foods.

4. Should the wound start to bleed, apply a small compress. This can be made from some cotton wool in a clean handkerchief. Place this on the bleeding point and bite firmly on it for 15-20 minutes, longer if necessary.

5. After 6 hours following extraction, bathe the mouth very GENTLY with a warm saline mouth wash. This should be continued after meals for several days or until healing is complete. A saline mouth wash is made by dissolving a level teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. The solution should be held in the mouth for two or three minutes to bathe the wound and then be discarded. Avoid over-vigorous rinsing.

6. Any pain or soreness can be treated by taking a mild pain relieving preparation.

7. If prolonged bleeding or pain occurs, consult your dentist.