DAY/WEEK OF SURGERY

NO physical exercises (eg, running, aerobics, biking, weight-lifting, etc),  as these activities will increase blood flow to the surgical site which essentially causes bleeding. Get a lot of rest for the first 2 to 3 days!!!

BLEEDING

DO NOT rinse vigorously, use straws, spit, smoke or brush the surgical site for the first 24 hours. Spitting or sucking will cause bleeding and remove the blood clot from the extraction site. Slight bleeding can be expected for the first two days. If bleeding is excessive, place a folded gauze pad or a moistened tea bag over the wound and bite firmly for 30 minutes. Assume a semi-upright position using a couple of pillows. PAIN

Take your medications as directed on the package. Take 400 to 800mg ibuprofen (for eg. Advil) every 6 to 8 hours for the first 2 days as needed. Advil is an anti-inflammatory drug that will reduce swelling and inflammation. Aspirin is NOT recommended as it interferes with blood clotting and is often associated with bleeding problems.

INFECTION

Signs of infection include increased pain and swelling after 3 days, redness, warmth, drainage of pus, foul smell and fever. If these occur, please contact the office.

SWELLING

Apply an ice pack – 10 minutes on & 10 minutes off to the jaw immediately upon returning home. Continue this on and off for 24 hours as needed. Peak swelling may occur between the second and third day postoperatively but it should diminish slowly thereafter.

DIET

A liquid or non-chew diet is recommended the day of the surgery and then soft foods high in vitamins and protein are recommended for the next several days. Increase your fluid intake. Gradually resume your normal diet as soon as possible.

ORAL HYGIENE

The day following surgery, the mouth may be rinsed gently with a warm saltwater solution (½ teaspoon salt per half glass of lukewarm water) after each meal and at bedtime. Do not use hydrogen peroxide rinses. The teeth should be brushed, but avoid the site(s) of the surgery.

SMOKING

Smoking can cause bleeding and delay healing. Smokers are advised not to smoke for 3 days following surgery.

DENTAL CARE

It is usually best to avoid routine or elective dental care (including orthodontic or hygiene visits) for approximately 2 weeks after surgery unless your dentist advises otherwise.

POST-OP VISITS

If you have been given an appointment for post-operative care, please return to the office as scheduled. If you are experiencing problems or have questions, we can usually arrange a postoperative visit on short notice. Please note that there are no additional charges for post-operative care visits.