Post-op Instructions

  •         DO NOT RINSE YOUR MOUTH TODAY. Tomorrow start rinsing with warm salt water (1/4 tsp. salt to 1 cup water) every 2-3         hours. Continue for several days. Then rinse 3-4 times a day for the next 2 weeks. You can brush your teeth starting                             tomorrow.
  •         Cool liquids are permitted whenever desired. Solid foods are allowed as you can tolerate them; however, avoid very hot                   foods or liquids for 24 hours. DO NOT use a straw for 3 days.
  •         NO SMOKING for at least 3 hours and longer if bleeding occurs.
  •         Alcoholic beverages of any kind should not be consumed following the use of pain medications that cause drowsiness.
  •         The surgical site may continue to bleed slightly for a day or two. This is no cause for alarm; however, if severe bleeding                      occurs, fold a piece of gauze or a wet tea bag and place over the bleeding area. Maintain firm biting pressure for 30 minutes.          Avoid frequent pace changes, rinsing or physical exertion until bleeding has stopped.
  •         Pain is to be expected for the first few hours. You should take prescribed medication as directed, keeping in mind that it                   takes about 45 minutes for the medicine to work. For this reason, take medication before pain becomes too severe. For                     minor discomfort take Advil, Tylenol or Aspirin.
  •         Bruising may occur and should disappear soon.
  •         If stitches were placed they will be removed in 5-10 days after surgery. If necessary, we will schedule an appointment for                 stitch removal on the day of surgery.
  •         Immediate dentures should not be removed. Special instructions will be given to you along with follow-up appointments.
  •         Keep your lips moist with lip balm or Vaseline to prevent cracking.
  •         Tightness of the jaw muscles may cause difficulty in opening the mouth. This should disappear within 7 days.