Post-operative Instructions
These instructions apply to the surgical procedure just completed. They 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. It is advisable to not take pain medication on an empty stomach, as nausea may result.
Note: When taking any prescribed medication containing Acetaminophen (Tylenol), i.e.; Percocet, Hydrocodone, Vicoden or Tylenol with Codeine, you should not take additional Tylenol so as not to exceed the safety level of Acetaminophen. Please contact the office with any questions you may have.
Antibiotics
Please alert the office to any allergies or sensitivities that you might have to antibiotics. An antibiotic may be prescribed following your surgical procedure. Take as directed. For women taking birth control pills, be advised that antibiotics may interfere with their effectiveness.
Swelling
Swelling may occur following your surgical procedure and will typically increase 2-3 days after the procedure. To minimize the swelling, place an ice pack over the outside cheek area as soon as possible after surgery, 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off for 2-3 hours.
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.
- Enclose a moistened tea bag in a gauze square and apply pressure for 20 minutes.
- Call the office if bleeding persists.
Dressing
The dressing (which acts as a bandage) may be used to protect the surgical site and help reduce discomfort. If the dressing (or a portion of it) comes off, you may leave it out and throw it away.
Diet
Until comfortable, avoid chewing on the side where surgery was completed. Avoid hot foods and liquids. A soft diet is recommended. Foods such as cottage cheese, oatmeal, soup, eggs, yogurt, pasta, mashed potatoes, casseroles, and fruits are more easily eaten. Avoid hard, abrasive foods such as chips, nuts, crackers, etc. as well as “sticky” foods like peanut butter. Remember, adequate nutrition is essential for feeling better as well as for healing
Smoking
Since smoking can significantly slow healing and compromise results, please refrain from it as long as possible.
Alcohol
Do not drink alcohol while taking prescription pain medications.
Rinsing
You may rinse gently after surgery, but limit it to only after meals with 1/2 teaspoon of salt diluted in 8 oz. warm water. Continue doing this until your post-surgery appointment.
Brushing
Do not brush the surgical site. You may resume normal brushing/flossing in other areas the following day. If prescribed, please begin using the antibacterial rinse on the surgical site as directed.
Suture Removal
Most of the time, a dissolvable suture is used, avoiding the need to remove them. If sutures will need to be removed, you may choose to take some form of pain medication one hour prior to your suture removal appointment to minimize tenderness.
Contact Us
Should you have any questions or concerns during regular office hours, please do not hesitate to contact us at Fremont Office Phone Number 510-796-8333.