POST-OP Instructions

Eating

Do not eat or drink anything until the anesthetic wears off. Do not eat solid food for two hours. Avoid hot food or hot drinks for eight hours. Eat softer foods for the first week. Avoid sandwiches and other bulky food that you would have to bite into as well as nuts, seeds, chips and popcorn. Try not to disturb the surgical site. Chew on the other side of the mouth. Some examples of soft foods are: yogurt, eggs, fish, cottage cheese, mashed potatoes, soup, pasta, etc.

Swelling

As soon as possible, if instructed, apply on ice pack to the outside of the face ten minutes on, ten minutes off- on the first day. This will reduce swelling which may occur in the first few days after surgery. If you do not have any allergies of contraindications to Ibuprofen, it is recommended to take 600mg every 4-6 hours to help reduce swelling.

Bleeding

Ordinarily, a little bleeding will occur. If you notice slight oozing from the area, it will likely stop after a short time. If bleeding persists or is severe, apply light pressure with a wet black tea bag in the area. Maintain pressure for 5 minutes. Do not rinse or spit. 

Dressing (some procedures may not require dressing)

If a piece of the "dressing" breaks off before your next appointment, try to avoid touching the area. Do not brush or floss the site until your 1 week follow-up visit, or as instructed by the office.

Home Care

Do not brush the surgical area until instructed. Brush and floss the other teeth as usual. Rinse with Perioscience Rinse and apply the Perioscience Gel to the affected area if you were instructed to do so at your surgical appointment.

Exercise

Avoid strenuous exercise for 48 hours. Do not lift anything heavier than 15 pounds.