Patient Information

Oral Health 

Begin brushing and flossing your other teeth the day following surgery.  AVOID THE SURGICAL SITES until given specific instructions at your postoperative visit.  No pulling or tugging on the lip or mouth. Do not smoke, vape or use other forms of smokeless tobacco. 

Use the prescribed mouthwash twice daily beginning the morning after surgery until instructed to discontinue (typically 5-7 days). Warm salt water rinses can be used as needed, beginning the morning after surgery.  No over-the-counter mouthwash until sutures are out.

Swelling and bleeding 

Some swelling is normal, and an ice pack held on the cheek or lip over the surgical site for intermittent periods (10-20 minutes on and 10-20 minutes off) during the first 24-48 hours may help reduce swelling and will relieve some discomfort. For any residual swelling after the first 48 hours, heat is encouraged (hot water bottle, heating pad, etc.) to increase circulation and promote healing. If the swelling becomes progressively more severe after 2-3 days, please let us know.

For gum grafts procedures, some oozing of blood is expected from the donor site (usually the roof of the mouth). Please avoid hot and spicy foods or beverages for 24-hours, as these may dilate blood vessels and aggravate bleeding. If possible, stay off your feet and rest with your head slightly elevated. If heavy bleeding occurs, please call the office during normal business hours or the emergency number if after hours. 

Medications

Pain Medications: Take pain medication with milk, fruit juice, or a full glass of water.  Never take pain medication on an empty stomach. Ibuprofen OR Acetaminophen can be taken every three to four hours as needed for discomfort or combined every 6 hours.

Antibiotics: Take prescribed antibiotics as directed until gone with probiotic or dietary supplement to avoid stomach upset. Please note that antibiotics can make oral birth control less effective.

Important: If you have been taken off blood thinners, or if your current medications have been altered due to your dental surgery, contact your physician as soon as possible to determine when you should resume your medications. Delaying this telephone call could have potential life-threatening or other serious consequences. 

Diet

Adequate nutrition is essential for healing.  Following surgery, your diet should be restricted as follows:

• DAY 1: cold/soft foods such as healthy smoothies (seedless) & protein shakes.
• DAY 2/3: room temp/soft foods such as eggs, puddings, yogurts, soups ,etc… 
• DAY 4: and for the next 72 hours gradually progress to room temp/soft foods such as cooked vegetables, baked fish, tuna, pasta, and beans, which are easily chewed and swallowed. 

Avoid alcohol, carbonated beverages, and drinking through a straw for at least one week.  Avoid crunchy, sharp foods including seeds until your sutures are gone. DO NOT SKIP MEALS.

Activities

Rest: Plan to rest at home the remainder of the day of surgery and avoid strenuous activity during your immediate recovery period, usually 2-3 days.  When sleeping, elevate your head for the first two nights to decrease swelling.

After 24 Hours: You may return to a normal daily routine, but for one week following surgery, avoid strenuous activities such as heavy lifting or exercise programs which elevate your heart rate.

For sinus grafting procedures, Bone graft was placed into the maxillary sinus in preparation for implant placement. It is very important that you follow these instructions so the bone graft heals properly. 

1. 1. Take the full course of antibiotics until they are gone. If you develop any reactions to the antibiotic, please call the office. 
   2. Take a decongestant (Zyrtec) once a day. The best time to take this medication is before bedtime. 
   3. Do not blow your nose for two weeks, as this will damage the bone grafts.
   4. If you need to sneeze, please do so with your mouth open. This will cause less pressure in your sinuses. 
   5. You may have slight bleeding in the nostril or back of the throat. This is normal. 
   6. If you use dentures, please leave them out of your mouth as much as possible. 
   7. Do not smoke or vape.