Post-operative Instructions
These instructions apply to the surgical procedure just completed. They are designed to help you minimize post-surgical discomfort and inform you of any situation that may require special attention.
Pain Medications
It is not unusual to have discomfort for a few days following your surgical procedure. Typically over the counter pain medication will keep you comfortable. We recommend you that you take 1-2 tablets of Aleve (Naproxen) 220mg 1-2 tablets every 8-12 hours or the combination of 1 table of Advil (Ibuprofen) 400mg and 1 tablet of Tylenol (Acetaminophen) 500mg every 4-6 hours. It is advisable to not take pain medication on an empty stomach, as nausea may result.
Antibiotics
Please alert the office to any allergies or sensitivities that you might have to antibiotics. An antibiotic may be prescribed following your surgical procedure. Take as directed until gone. It is advisable not to take these medications on an empty stomach, as nausea may result. For women taking birth control pills, be advised that antibiotics may interfere with their effectiveness.
Swelling
Swelling may occur following your surgical procedure and will typically increase 2-3 days after the procedure. To minimize the swelling, place the provided ice pack over the outside cheek area for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. Continue using ice for 2-3 days following the procedure, as often as possible.
Bleeding
A small amount of bleeding is normal. If excessive or continuous bleeding occurs:
- Do not rinse your mouth.
- Elevate your head when lying down.
- Apply moistened gauze to the immediate area with moderate pressure for 30 minutes; repeat if necessary.
- Enclose a moistened tea bag in a gauze square and apply pressure for 30 minutes.
- Call the office if the bleeding persists.
Diet
Avoid chewing on the side where surgery was completed for at least 2 weeks after surgery. Avoid straws, hard crunchy foods and a soft diet is recommended. Foods such as cottage cheese, oatmeal, soup, eggs, yogurt, pasta, mashed potatoes, casseroles, and fruits are more easily eaten. Remember, adequate nutrition is essential for feeling better as well as for healing.
Smoking
Do not smoke for at least 2 weeks following your surgical procedure. It will significantly slow healing and compromise results.
Alcohol
Do not drink alcohol while taking prescription pain medications.
Rinsing
Do not rinse for the first 24 hours. After that, please use the provided mouthrinse, hydrogen peroxide or salt rinse three times a day. Do not vigorously swish when rinsing as this can dislodge the blood clots.
Brushing
Do not brush the surgical site. You may resume normal brushing and flossing in other areas the following day.
Suture Removal
You may notice increased discomfort 3–4 days after the surgical procedure. As the tissues begin to heal, they may pull against the sutures and dressing. You may choose to take some form of pain medication one hour prior to your suture removal appointment to minimize tenderness. If you are a patient for whom antibiotic pre-medication is required, take the prescribed antibiotics 1 hour prior to your suture removal appointment.
Contact Us
Should you have any questions or concerns during regular office hours, please do not hesitate to contact us at Winter Park Periodontics and Implant Dentistry Phone Number (407) 644-4404.
