CARE OF THE MOUTH
Brushing and Flossing. Begin brushing and flossing the areas not operated on the day following surgery. AVOID THE SURGICAL SITES until given specific brushing instructions at your postoperative visit. You may notice a white film over the surgical sites. This is completely normal.
Mouthwash. Use the prescribed mouthwash twice daily beginning the morning after surgery until instructed to discontinue.
Electron Toothbrushes. DO NOT use an electric toothbrush such as Sonicare or Oral-B Braun for 6 weeks following surgery.
Water Pik. DO NOT use a Water Pik for at least 6 weeks following surgery.
EATING
First 24 Hours. Adequate nutrition is essential for normal healing. Following surgery, your diet should be restricted to COLD LIQUIDS. Dietary supplements such as Instant Breakfast or Ensure are good choices. AVOID PEROXIDE, ALCOHOL, CARBONATED BEVERAGES, AND DRINKING THROUGH A STRAW.
After 24 Hours. Gradually progress to soft foods such as cooked vegetables, baked fish, tuna, pasta and meatloaf, which are easily chewed and swallowed. DO NOT SKIP MEALS. If you take nourishment regularly, you will feel better, gain strength, have less discomfort, and heal faster.
ACTIVITIES
Rest. Plan to rest at home the remainder of the day of surgery and the following day. You may read, watch TV or work at your desk at home. When sleeping, elevate your head to decrease swelling.
After 24 Hours. You may return to normal daily routine, but avoid strenuous activities such as heavy lifting, or exercise programs which elevate your heart rate for one week following surgery.
MEDICATIONS
Pain Medications. Take pain medications within one hour after treatment with mild, fruit juice, or a full glass of water. Never take pain medications on an empty stomach. This medication may be repeated every three to four hours as needed for discomfort. DO NOT USE ASPIRIN or products containing aspirin for one week following surgery. Aspirin, Advil, and Aleve can contribute to bleeding problems. Only the non-aspirin pain reliever, Tylenol is acceptable.
Antibiotics. Take prescribed antibiotics as directed until all have been taken. You will begin this medication the day prior to surgery.
SWELLING
Ice Packs. Some swelling occurs after periodontal surgery. To minimize this, you will be advised to use ice packs. Place the ice pack on the outside of your face, over the treated area, for 10 minutes, and then take it off for 10 minutes. Continue to apply ice packs as much as possible the first 24 hours after surgery.
BLEEDING
Slight bleeding or oozing is normal during the first one- or two-days following surgery. If excessive bleeding occurs, please call our office.
SMOKING
DO NOT SMOKE for three weeks after surgery. Smoking is detrimental to healing tissues and will affect the results of surgery. If you can stop smoking for three weeks postoperatively, you may as well quit all together.
SUTURES
Resorbable. The resorbable sutures used usually will be resorbed by the time you return for your post-operative visit.
Non-Resorbable. If non-resorbable sutures were placed, they will be removed at your post-operative visit.
It is our sincere desire that you are as comfortable as possible following surgery. If you should have any questions or problems, please call our office anytime.