After Oral Surgery Instructions

Care of the mouth after oral surgery has an important effect upon healing. Swelling, discomfort, restricted jaw function and cheek discoloration is expected, and need not cause alarm. These may be minimized by the following instructions. Please read them carefully. It is strongly urged that they be followed.

1. Bleeding Control: Remove the gauze pack upon arriving home. If bleeding is excessive, place a roll of sterile gauze or a moistened tea bag over the wound and bite firmly for 30 minutes with CONSTANT PRESSURE, repeat as needed but remember a small amount of bleeding is expected. Assume a semi-upright bed position, using 2 pillows. Avoid spitting; this may cause bleeding to reoccur.
2. Pain Control and/or Antibiotic: Have your prescriptions filled and take as directed on the package. If you develop hives or rash, discontinue all medications and immediately contact our office at 426-6135 or 471-7422 (after hours).
3. Swelling Control: Apply an ice pack to the jaw IMMEDIATELY upon your return home, 30 minutes on and 30 minutes off. This may be continued several times a day for several days if necessary.
4. Diet: To skip meals and/or fluids will add to your discomfort. A liquid diet or soft food, high in protein and vitamins, is wise the day of surgery, and may be necessary for several days after surgery. Hydration is important to avoid dizziness and possibly fainting when attempting to stand. Return to your normal diet as soon as possible since this will maintain strength and aid healing. No straws as these will disrupt healing.
5. Oral Hygiene: Begin to rinse your mouth 24 hours after extraction. Rinse with warm salt water after eating for one week following surgery. The teeth may be brushed but avoid the site of surgery.

*Patients who received an irrigating syringe: Begin flushing your lower extraction sites starting no sooner than one week after your surgery. A mixture of warm water and mouthwash is advised. Flush sockets 1-2 times per day.

*Patients who received sutures: The sutures will dissolve on their own in approximately 4-7 days. The texture/color of the sutures will change during healing. 

       6. Smokers are advised not to smoke for 48 hours after surgery.

       7. Do not drive any vehicle or operate any machinery for the next 24 hours or while taking narcotic pain medications.

HAVE AVAILABLE A RESPONSIBLE AND CAPABLE PERSON TO HELP YOU. SHOULD PROBLEMS OR QUESTIONS ARISE, CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 426-6135 (normal office hours: Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 8:00am to 5:00pm, Friday 8:00am to 2:00pm). After normal office hours call 471-7422.