Post-Operative instructionsfor Oral Surgery and Surgical Extractions Day 1If given gauze, continue biting on the gauze for 30-60 minutes following your procedure. Do NOT spit, rinse, suck (using a straw), smoke, drink carbonated or alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours. Passively empty your mouth when needed. The goal is to keep blood clot in the socket to prevent bleeding and a painful complication known as DRY SOCKET. Day 2You will most likely experience one or more of the following symptoms: Minor pain, swelling, bruising, limitation in opening or closing your mouth, pain in jaw or ear, sore throat. It is important to listen to your body and take it easy. No heavy lifting, spitting, sucking, alcohol or smoking. Oral hygieneBrush gently. A gentle lukewarm saltwater rinse should be used twice a day for two weeks. But again, do not spit; just let the fluid passively empty. The corners of your mouth may become cracked and dry – moisturize frequently. DiscomfortOver the counter- pain medication (Ibuprofen, Aleve, and Tylenol) may be taken as directed on the bottle to relieve discomfort. SwellingApply cold compresses to affected area at 10-minute intervals for the first 24 hours to minimize swelling. Any swelling that occurs usually begins to diminish within 72 hours; call the office if there is no change. BleedingSome oozing of blood is normal for the first 12-24 hours. Put a hand towel on your pillow as some drooling can occur when you are numb. If you experience excessive bleeding, apply firm pressure with 1-2 folded gauze pads or damp tea bag on the affected area for 30-60 minutes and keep your head elevated. Call the office if the bleeding does not subside. DietDrink plenty of fluids. Avoid carbonated and alcoholic beverages. A soft diet will be easiest: yogurt, milkshakes (no straw), soups, fish, pasta. Nothing too spicy is recommended. It is normal to have a little tenderness while chewing and difficulty opening wide. StitchesIf you have received sutures, avoid playing with them. A 15-minute appointment will be needed to remove the sutures in 7-10 days. PrescriptionsIf you have been prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed until they are all gone, even if symptoms dissipate. Some antibiotics can interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills or other medications. If pain medication or a mouth rinse is prescribed take as directed. In case of any unusual disturbances, questions or any post-surgical problems, please call the office at (978) 720-9009! |
 Phone(978) 720-9009 HoursMonday: 9am - 1pm Tuesday: 8am - 5pm Wednesday: 9am - 1pm Thursday: 8am - 5pm Friday: 9am - 1pm Saturday: 8am - 2pm Hours may vary. Call for appointment after hours. |
