Surgical Post-Operative Instructions

●Wound care

  • Bite firmly on gauze that has been placed, until you arrive home, and then place new gauze.
  • Do not smoke for at least 12 hours, because this will promote bleeding and interfere with healing.

●Bleeding

  • Some blood will ooze from the area this is normal. You may want to sleep with an old pillow case tonight.
  • Do not spit or drink from a straw for at least 2 days, because this promotes bleeding and possible dry sockets.
  • If bleeding begins again, place a small damp gauze or damp tea bag directly over the tooth socket and bite firmly for 30 minutes. Keep your head elevated with several pillows or sit in a lounge chair.

●Medication

  • Take one of the pain pills before your numbness wears off.
  • Make sure to take all your prescriptions as directed.
  • Eat while taking your medications or you may become nauseous.
  • Follow directions on bottle from your pharmacist.

●Diet

  • It is very important to stay hydrated, drink lots of fluids.
  • Cold and soft foods the first day will be most comfortable for you.

●Oral hygiene

  • Do not rinse or brush your teeth for the first 8 hours.
  • You can rinse with warm salt water gently after the 8 hours to help move along healing (no swishing).
  • Brush your teeth gently, but avoid the area of surgery.

●Swelling

  • Swelling after your appointment is normal; This could last up to 4 to 6 days and may come with some bruising.
  • Apply ice pack if you notice swelling for 10 minutes on and 5 minutes off.
  • You may experience jaw stiffness and limited mouth opening. This should improve within 5 to 10 days.

●Rest

  • Avoid strenuous activity for 12 hours after surgery.

●Stitches

  • If stitches have been placed in the area you will need to have them removed in one week. Your appointment is on______.

●Call the office if:

  • You experience excessive discomfort that you cannot control with your medication.
  • You have bleeding that you cannot control.
  • You have increased swelling after the third day following surgery.
  • You have a fever.
  • You have any questions.