Instructions Following Oral Surgery

Please read these instructions and follow the instructions carefully.

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Bleeding

Minor oozing and blood-streaked saliva is normal for the first 48 hours following surgery.

If extensive oozing occurs, place a moist gauze directly over the surgical site and bite firmly for one hour or bite on a saturated black tea bag for 30 minutes. Try keeping your head elevated while resting. Avoid rinsing, smoking, sucking through a straw, irritating the area and excessive activity.  It is important to note:  DO NOT EAT OR SLEEP WITH GAUZE IN YOUR MOUTH.  If these measures do not control the bleeding, please phone our office.

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Pain

Some pain or discomfort is to be expected after surgery. The severity varies from one person to another and the nature of the surgery. If the prescribed pain medication seems inadequate, or if the pain returns or worsens after the third day, please contact us.  Please take the pain medication BEFORE the freezing wears off.

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Swelling

Various degrees of swelling and bruising may occur following surgery. The amount will depend on each individual person and the nature of the surgery. Swelling can increase during the first three days, and then will usually resolve over the next one to two weeks. To minimize swelling, apply a cold compress to the affected side of the face for 15 minutes on, then 15 minutes off, for the first 6 hours.

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Dry Socket

This condition can occur 3 to 4 days after the extraction.  It is characterized by a bad taste and smell plus a soreness that is NOT helped by pain medication.  It occurs almost exclusively with teeth of the lower jaw.  If you suspect you have dry socket, please call the clinic and we will provide a sedative dressing for the area.

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Diet

Proper nutrition is important for healing, as well as for your general health. Following surgery, it is best to ingest clear liquids (for example, apple juice, lukewarm broth) for the first 24 hours. Then beginning with soft nutritious food, slowly advance your diet as tolerated.

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Oral Hygiene

DO NOT rinse your mouth today. Starting tomorrow, rinse you mouth GENTLY with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt to a glass of warm water) after each meal. Use a soft toothbrush to clean your teeth, but avoid direct contact with the wound.

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Sutures

If sutures are needed, usually the dissolving type will be used. Do not attempt to remove them yourself. They will normally dissolve in 7-14 days.

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Medications

If you receive a prescription, follow the directions carefully. If you experience a rash or adverse side effects, stop taking the medication and contact our office. Pain medication may cause drowsiness and impair your reflexes or judgment for several hours after taking them. Do not drive or engage in any hazardous activities.

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At any time, if the need arises, please feel free to contact our office.