Skip to main content
470-239-42895520 Castleberry Rd., Suite 300, Cumming, GA 30040
Expose and bonding post-op care

Post-Operative Instructions: Expose & Bonding of Impacted Tooth

This procedure involves surgically uncovering an impacted tooth and bonding an orthodontic bracket to guide it into the correct position. Proper aftercare is important for healing and the success of orthodontic treatment.

Bleeding

  • Light bleeding is normal for the first 24 hours after surgery.
  • Bite on gauze pads for 30 minutes. Replace as needed.
  • Avoid spitting, rinsing forcefully, or using straws for 24 hours.

Swelling

  • Apply ice packs to the affected area — 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off — for the first 48 hours.
  • Swelling may take 2 to 3 days to peak and then will gradually improve.
  • Keep your head elevated while resting to reduce swelling.

Pain Management

  • Take pain medication as prescribed or use ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) as directed.
  • Begin taking medication before the numbness from anesthesia wears off for the best comfort.
  • If antibiotics are prescribed, complete the entire course.

Diet

  • Eat soft foods for the first several days — yogurt, applesauce, pasta, mashed potatoes, and smoothies are good choices.
  • Avoid chewing on the side of the surgical area.
  • Stay away from hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could damage the bracket or chain.

The Bracket & Chain

  • Do not touch or pull on the chain or bracket attached to the impacted tooth.
  • The chain may be tucked under the gum or attached to your orthodontic wire — this is normal.
  • If the bracket comes loose or the chain detaches, contact our office and your orthodontist promptly.
  • Continue your regular orthodontic appointments as scheduled unless instructed otherwise.

Oral Hygiene

  • Do not brush the surgical site for the first 24 to 48 hours.
  • After 24 hours, begin gentle warm salt water rinses after meals.
  • Carefully brush around the surgical area once comfortable, taking care not to disturb the bracket.
  • Use prescribed chlorhexidine rinse if provided.

Surgical Packing

  • A protective surgical packing may be placed over the wound. If it falls out after the first few days, this is generally not a concern.
  • If the packing comes loose on the day of surgery and you experience increased bleeding or pain, contact our office.

Activity

  • Rest for the first 24 to 48 hours.
  • Avoid strenuous physical activity for 3 to 5 days.
  • Do not smoke, as it can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.

When to Contact Us

  • The bracket or chain becomes detached.
  • Pain or swelling worsens significantly after 3 to 4 days.
  • Excessive bleeding that does not stop with gauze pressure.
  • Signs of infection — fever, pus, or a foul taste.

If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery, please contact our office at 470-239-4289.