Post-Operative Care

Medications

Please follow all medication instructions carefully. Medications should be taken with a full glass of water and some food, unless otherwise directed. If you experience nausea, itching, or a rash while taking any of the prescribed medications, contact our office immediately.

Women who use oral contraceptives should be aware that antibiotics may reduce their effectiveness. We recommend using an alternative form of birth control while taking antibiotics.

Bleeding

It is normal to experience light oozing for up to 24 hours after surgery. If you notice continuous or sudden bleeding, place firm pressure on the area with gauze from your post-operative kit for 20 minutes. A moistened tea bag may also be applied as an alternative, as the tannins in black tea can help promote clotting. If bleeding does not stop after 20 minutes, please call our office.

To help reduce the risk of bleeding, avoid smoking, vaping, drinking through straws, or spitting excessively after your procedure.

Diet

A nutritious, protein-rich diet will support healing after surgery. We recommend liquids and soft foods that are easy to digest, such as eggs, soft meats, fish, mashed potatoes, yogurt, gelatin, and pudding. Protein or meal replacement shakes are also excellent choices.

Avoid hard, crunchy, or seedy foods (such as nuts, popcorn, or chips), as these may disturb the surgical site.

Swelling

Some swelling is expected and is most noticeable during the first two to three days, though it may last up to one week. To minimize swelling, apply an ice pack to the outside of the surgical area as soon as possible after surgery. Apply in 20-minute intervals during the first three to four hours, and sleep with your head elevated for the first 72 hours.

Oral Hygiene

Keeping your mouth clean is essential for healing. Avoid brushing directly over the surgical site, but continue brushing and flossing the rest of your mouth as usual.

If a medicated mouth rinse was given or prescribed, please use it as directed. If no rinse was prescribed, you may begin gentle rinsing with warm salt water or a diluted over-the-counter mouth rinse starting the day after surgery.

Surgical Stent (if provided)

If you are given a surgical stent, wear it continuously for the first 24 hours following surgery. After that time, remove it to gently clean with a toothbrush, and carefully brush your teeth while avoiding the surgical area.

For the first two weeks, wear the stent at night and during the day as much as possible for comfort. Continue to clean the stent each time you brush your teeth.

General Guidelines

Most patients experience a smooth and comfortable recovery. Please avoid strenuous activity for one week after surgery, and follow all procedure-specific instructions provided by your doctor.

If you have any concerns, questions, or unexpected changes during your recovery, do not hesitate to contact our office. Our team is available to assist you throughout your recovery.