Post-operative Instructions
Post-operative instructions are designed to help you minimize post-surgical discomfort and inform you of any situation that may require special attention.
Pain Medications
It is not unusual to have discomfort for at least the first week following your surgical procedure. You will be given a prescription for medication to help you tolerate the post-surgical recovery period. Please take your medications as directed. If necessary, you may take your pain medication more frequently than every 4-6 hours to stay ahead of the soreness. It is advisable to not take pain medication on an empty stomach, as nausea may result.
As an alternative to prescription medications, some patients have found taking a combination of over-the-counter Ibuprofen and Tylenol to be effective. You may take the combination in either of the following dosages: 3 Advil Liqui-Gels and 2 Regular Strength Tylenol or 3 Advil Liqui-Gels and 1 Extra Strength Tylenol, every 4-6 hours as needed.
Note: When taking any prescribed medication containing acetaminophen (Tylenol), i.e.; Percocet, hydrocodone, Norco or Tylenol with Codeine, you should not take additional Tylenol so as not to exceed the maximum dose of acetaminophen (4000mg in 24 hours). Please contact the office with any questions you may have.
ANTIBIOTICS
Please alert the office to any allergies or sensitivities that you have to antibiotics. An antibiotic may be prescribed following your surgical procedure. Take as directed until gone. It is advisable not to take these medications on an empty stomach, as nausea may result. For women taking birth control pills, be advised that antibiotics may interfere with their effectiveness.
Swelling
Swelling and discoloration may occur. This is normal and will subside in a few days. Place ice packs on the face in the region of the treated area (on 20 minutes – off 20 minutes) on the day of surgery to reduce swelling and discomfort (wrap ice pack in a towel/paper towel). Sleep with your head elevated the first three nights following surgery.
Bleeding
A small amount of bleeding is normal. If excessive or continuous bleeding occurs:
- Do not rinse your mouth.
- Elevate your head when lying down.
- Apply moistened gauze to the immediate area with moderate pressure for 20 minutes; repeat if necessary.
- Moisten a tea bag and apply pressure for 20 minutes.
- Call the office if bleeding persists.
Dressing
The dressing (which acts as a bandage) is used to protect the surgical site and help reduce discomfort. If the dressing comes off or is uncomfortable, please call the office for direction.
Diet
Until comfortable, avoid chewing on the side where surgery was completed. Avoid hot foods and liquids for approximately 1 hour following the surgery so as not to soften the dressing. A soft diet is recommended. Foods such as cottage cheese, soup, eggs, yogurt, pasta, mashed potatoes, and ice cream are more easily eaten. Remember, adequate nutrition is essential for feeling better as well as for healing.
Smoking
Do not smoke for two weeks prior to surgery and four weeks after surgery. It will put you at significant risk for infection and surgical failure. If you can stop smoking for that long, don’t start again.
Alcohol
Do not drink alcohol while taking antibiotics and/or prescription pain medications.
Rinsing
Do not rinse for the first 24 hours. After that, you can begin using salt water rinses (1 tsp. salt, 1 cup room temperature water) 2-3 times per day, GENTLY.
Brushing
Brushing should be avoided in areas where there is surgical dressing. Do not use an electric toothbrush or Water Pik for at least six weeks following surgery, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Contact Us
Should you have any questions or concerns during regular office hours, please do not hesitate to contact us at Periodontic and Implantology Specialists Phone Number (248) 851-1034.