Instructions for the Treatment of a Hematoma

Discoloration of the skin is likely to develop, and it will gradually diminish over 7 to 14 days.

IF SORENESS DEVELOPS:

Taking aspirin or Ibuprofen (Advil), or Tylenol will help relieve the discomfort, and is recommended unless you are unable to take these medications because they may interact with other medications you are taking, or you are allergic to them, or your doctor has advised against their use.
Ice may be applied to the region immediately.
Do not apply heat to the area for at least 4 to 6 hours.
Heat may be applied the next day by applying warm moist towels to the affected area for 20 minutes every hour.
TIME is the most important element in managing a hematoma. With or without treatment, a hematoma will be present for 7 to 14 days. Avoid additional dental therapy in the region until symptoms and signs resolve.

Apply hot, moist towels to the affected area for approximately 20 minutes every hour.
Add a teaspoon of salt to a 12 ounce glass of warm water and hold a sip in the mouth on the affected side then spit it out once the water cools. Repeat until the glass is empty.
Taking aspirin or Ibuprofen (Advil) will help relieve the inflammation, and is recommended unless you are unable to take these medications because they may interact with other medications you are taking, or you are allergic to them, or your doctor has advised against their use.
If your dentist gave you a prescription medication, take it as directed.
Open and close the mouth as well as move your jaw side to side for 5 minutes every 3-4 hours. Chewing sugarless gum is one method for accomplishing this.
Continue therapy until you are symptom free.
In most cases once therapy has been initiated, patients report that they start to see improvement within 48-72 hours. Complete recovery usually takes about 6 weeks, but may take up to 20 weeks.