Post-Surgical Instructions

  1. Avoid strenuous exercise for the remainder of the day.
  2. Smoking and alcohol consumption delay wound healing and should be avoided for 3 days following surgery.
  3. In order to control swelling, place an ice bag over the surgical area-applying and removing at 15 minute intervals for the remainder of the day.
  4. Discoloration may appear following the surgery and will gradually disappear. If swelling occurs, it will reach its peak by the 4th day.
  5. Slight bleeding can be expected during the first day of surgery. If excessive bleeding occurs place a wet tea bag inside the mouth at the surgical site and press firmly on OUTSIDE of cheek for 1/2  hour. Keep head elevated. If bleeding persists, call the office.
  6. Do NOT raise the lip to look at operated area. It is possible to tear the stitches accidentally, open the incision and delay healing.
  7. Eat a soft diet; mashed potatoes, yogurt, eggs, pasta, etc. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods until the sutures are removed.
  8. Drink plenty of cold liquids. If possible, avoid hot drinks and soup for the first 24 hours. Do NOT drink through a straw.
  9. Starting the day after your surgery, use a warm salt-water rinse (1/2 glass of warm water, 1/2 teaspoon salt; repeat this 4 or 5 times a day for 2 weeks) or the prescribed mouth rinse (follow directions on bottle), whichever your doctor has prescribed. Rinse gently.
  10. For control of inflammation and pain, take 600mg of Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, or Generic) every 6 hours for 4 days following your procedure. If you can not take NSAIDS (Aspirin, Ibuprofen, or Naproxen) or if you are allergic to Aspirin, take 1000 mg of Tylenol every 4-6 hours as needed for pain.
  11. Take your prescribed antibiotic as directed.
  12. Return to the office as pre-arranged by appointment, approximately 7 days after surgery.
  13. If any unusual symptoms develop, please contact our office for advice or further instructions.