Post-оperative іnstructions

Bleeding

A certain amount of bleeding is to be expected following surgery. Slight bleeding, oozing or redness in the saliva is not uncommon in the first two days following the procedure. Keep your head elevated when lying down (use two pillows).

In case of excessive bleeding : most bleeding can be controlled by applying an uninterrupted gentle pressure for 30 minutes, typically with a sterile moist/cold gauze. Repeat if necessary. Avoid spitting because this will cause more bleeding. If bleeding continues, bite on a moistened tea bag for 30 minutes. If bleeding does not subside, call for further instructions.

Swelling

After surgery some patients may experience some swelling around the mouth, cheeks and sides of the face. The swelling will not become apparent until the day following surgery and will not reach its maximum until two to three days post-operatively. You can minimize swelling by applying ice over your face in the first 48 hours (15 minutes on then 15 minutes off for every awakened hour). After 48 hours, ice has no beneficial effect. Also, sip ice water, ice tea/coffee and consume only cold foods such as ice creams, yogurts for 2 days. Stiffness of the jaw muscles may cause difficulty in opening your mouth for a few days following surgery. This is a normal post-operative event which will resolve in time.

Medications

Take all medications as directed.

It is important to begin pain medication soon after surgery. Do not wait for the local anesthetic to wear off before taking your medication. Use pain medications as directed.

Make sure to eat before taking any medication to lessen your chances of nausea. If you were prescribed antibiotics take them as directed. Discontinue antibiotic use in the event of a rash or other unfavorable reactions (diarrhea) and contact our office or your doctor.

Diet

Avoid hot, acidic, spicy, crusty foods or beverages (avoid sodas and fruit juices)

Avoid using straws.

Remember, it is important to hydrate and maintain adequate nutrition for optimal healing to occur. Drink lots of fluids. Dehydration delays healing and increases your risk of having nausea.

First two-days after surgery :

Cold liquid or very soft foods only : ice creams, yogurts, mashed potatoes… (use a blender)

After 48 hours:

Progress slowly to more solid and warmer foods.

Chewing only on the side opposite to the surgical site.

Avoid smoking and alcohol

Excessive smoking or alcohol consumption may affect gum healing and may limit the successful outcome of the surgery.

Activity – Sports

Relax the remainder of the day. Avoid strenuous activity for several days.

Avoid working out, sports, hard work, houseworks, sunbathing, swimming.

Oral hygiene

It is important to keep brushing and flossing the adjacent teeth while avoiding the surgical area until further instructions.

Start rinsing carefully your mouth as directed on the prescription tilting your head from right to left.

Avoid lifting or pulling on your lip to examine the surgical site during the first 3-4 days as this may disturb the healing process. Please avoid touching the surgical area/the sutures with your tongue.

Return to work

Although most patients are able to return to work on the next day, it is sometimes advised that you take 1 or 2 days off from work If you have been prescribed narcotics or sedatives, then avoid driving and operating machines.

Also learn about : Pre-operative instructions