Swelling may occur and this is normal. Place an ice pack on and off for 15 minutes for the remaining of the day. This will keep swelling to a minimum. If swelling has occurred the second day, place a warm compress on and off for 15 minutes. This will help with blood flow. A black and blue discoloration (bruise) may appear. This will fade to yellow/green within a week.
Most discomfort will occur from two to five days after the procedure. If you are experiencing pain, take the pain medicine as directed. If you are prescribed a narcotic, take only as needed.DO NOT DRIVE AN AUTOMOBILE OR WORK NEAR DANGEROUS MACHINERY. If you experience any symptoms such as nausea, itching, or a rash, discontinue the medication and call us immediately.
Antibiotics are not for all procedures. If you have been prescribed antibiotics, please take as directed and finish the dose to prevent any infection or complications. Antibiotics can cause an upset stomach. Do not take on an empty stomach and drink plenty of fluids. If you are having a reaction to them, please call our office. FEMALES: ANTIBIOTICS CAN INTERFERE WITH THE EFFICIENCY OF BIRTH CONTROL PILLS. IF YOU ARE TAKING THEM, PLEASE PRACTICE AN ADDITIONAL METHOD OF BIRTH CONTROL FOR ONE FULL MENSTRUAL CYCLE.
Blood in your saliva is expected and normal during the first 24-48 hours following surgery. If there is considerable bleeding, you may place a damp, non-herbal tea bag on the area. Apply pressure for 20 minutes. Remain quiet and still and keep your head elevated. Repeat as needed. RINSING SHOULD NOT BE USED TO STOP BLEEDING. If bleeding continues, call our office.
Do not eat or drink anything hot for the next couple hours. Limit yourself to a semi-soft diet for the next week to ensure you do not injure the surgical area. SUGGESTED FOODS: EGGS, YOGURT, COTTAGE CHEESE, OATMEAL, PROTEIN SMOOTHIES, RICE DISHES, BEANS, PASTA, MEATLOAF, FISH, MASHED POTATOES, SOUPS, COOKED VEGETABLES, ICE CREAM, JELLO. Foods to avoid: Sandwiches, burgers, burritos, salads, raw fruits or vegetables, chips, nuts, hard bread.
Please do not neglect your mouth. Brush and floss the areas that have not worked on. For the surgical areas, please turn over for instructions.
DO NOT EXERCISE FOR 48 HOURS FOLLOWING SURGERY. Increased heart rate causes more blood flow to the area which can cause more swelling, bruising, bleeding, and pain. Light house chores and errands are ok.
SMOKER? Please stop smoking for at least seven days following surgery. Smoking can seriously delay healing and have a significant negative effect on the outcome of your procedure.
If a pink periodontal dressing has been placed over the surgical area, please leave it alone until you return to our office. If the dressing falls off, do not worry. Please throw it away. Do not attempt to put it back in your mouth.
If you have any removable dental appliance, (EX: Stayplate, retainer, nightguard, partial denture). Please leave them out as much as possible for the first 3 days so it does not irritate the surgical area. IF YOU WERE GIVEN A STENT TO PROTECT THE ROOF OF YOUR MOUTH, USE IT WHEN YOU EAT, RINSE IT OFF AND PLACE IT BACK IN YOUR MOUTH.