POST – OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

WOUND CARE:

Bite firmly on gauze pack that has been placed for one hour, then remove it gently. Do not smoke for 48 hours because this will promote bleeding and interfere with healing.

BLEEDING:

Some blood will ooze from the area of surgery; this is normal. In the morning, you may find that a small amount of blood has stained your pillow. Do not spit or suck through a straw, since this promotes bleeding. If bleeding begins again, place a gauze pack or moist tea bag directly over the tooth socket, and bite firmly for one hour. Keep your head elevated with several pillows or sit in a lounge chair.

DISCOMFORT:

Some discomfort is normal after surgery. It can be controlled but not eliminated by taking the pain pills your doctor has prescribed. Take your pain pills crushed up in a small amount of food if the pills cause nausea. Do not drive or drink alcohol if you take prescription pain pills.

DIET:

It is important to drink a large volume of fluids. Do not drink through a straw because this may promote bleeding. Eat normal regular meals as soon as possible after surgery. Soft foods, such as ice cream, soup, eggs, pancakes, mashed potatoes and yogurt, are suggested for the first day. A daily vitamin is also recommended.

SWELLING:

Swelling after surgery is a normal body reaction. It reaches its maximum at about 3 days post op and usually lasts 6 to 8 days. Applying ice packs over the area of surgery 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off for the first 24 hours helps control swelling and may help the area to be more comfortable.

BRUISING:

It is normal to have bruising after a procedure.

HYGIENE:

Do not rinse your mouth or brush your teeth for the first 12 hours after surgery. After that, rinse gently with warm salt water ever 4 hours for 1 week.

(1/4 teas. salt mixed with 8 oz. warm water)

REST:

Avoid strenuous activity for one week after your surgery.

CALL THE OFFICE IF:

  1. You experience excessive discomfort that you cannot control with your pain pills.
  2. You have bleeding that you cannot control by biting on gauze.
  3. You have increasing swelling after the third day following your surgery.
  4. You have a fever greater than 101 degrees.
  5. You have any questions.