Post Operative Instructions For Extractions, Dental Implants, Soft Tissue and Periodontal Procedures
(All INSTRUCTIONS APPLY TO THE FIRST 7 DAYS, UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED)
- AVOID pulling the lip and looking at the surgical site as this can delay healing. AVOID rinsing or swishing the area vigorously. DO NOT use a straw.
ABSOLUTELY NO SMOKING OR VAPING. - ICE as directed; some procedures do not require ice. If applicable, apply ice pack to surgical area for the first two days. Do not compromise this; 3 to 4 times a day for 20 minutes is sufficient. Ice helps dramatically to reduce swelling and pain at the surgical site.
- DIET; Semi-soft food diet (eggs, pasta, fish, chicken, protein shakes) Use common sense.
AVOID: Spicy, crunchy and anything too hot in temperature (warm is okay). If possible, try to utilize the opposite side when chewing. - SWELLING; You may have swelling or bruising on day one, however it usually does not occur until day 3 or 4.
Swelling is normal – don’t be alarmed by it. If swelling reoccurs with pain 2-3 weeks following surgery, please call the office. - BRUSHING; Use the red brush provided to you. Brush the tops of the teeth but please avoid brushing the gumline. Brush and floss all your other teeth as normal.
*If a red toothbrush was not provided, no need to worry, as your procedure did not require one.*
Listerine or Warm Salt Water is recommended to bathe the surgical area and will replace your regular toothbrush in the surgical area for the next two weeks following surgery. - MEDICATIONS; Take medications as prescribed; See attached instruction sheet for medications.
- BLEEDING; You may have some mild bleeding and your saliva may be pink in color for the first 2 days, this is not unusual. If bleeding is more persistent, hold a wet cold tea bag (caffeinated) over the area with firm pressure for about 10 minutes and repeat as necessary. Do not rinse. If bleeding does not stop, call the office or reach the doctor.
- PAIN/DISCOMFORT; Discomfort should be quite minimal. If you have objectionable pain which medication does not relieve – call the office. It is normal and possible for the adjacent teeth to be sore and temperature sensitive for up to two weeks after the surgery.
- EXERCISE; NO vigorous cardiovascular workouts for 3 days (Anything that could increase your heart rate such as; yoga, hiking, treadmill, weights etc.) Take it easy for the first week, continue to enjoy your life. If you start to exercise, expect to have an increase in swelling and potential increase in discomfort.
- SUTURES; We use two types of sutures, dissolvable and non-dissolvable. Dissolvable sutures will dissolve at different rates and can happen as quickly as day 2 and could last as long as 14 days- They will come out when they are ready. Non- dissolvable ones will be removed at your follow up appointment.
**Please understand that every item may not apply to you and your procedure. Please keep in mind the conversation between you and the surgical assistant. DO NOT HESITATE to call the office or the doctor for clarification** Office Number: 480-443-8440
