1. Continue biting with light pressure on the folded gauze for 30
minutes, and replace after 30 minutes when you return home. The
gauze will be stained with blood when you remove it. That is not
due to active bleeding, but rather the wicking action of the gauze.
If bleeding persists after you remove the second gauze then place a
moist tea bag over the surgical area biting again with light
pressure. If this proves unsuccessful please call Dr. Hopkins.
2. Do not rinse out your mouth or spit today as that may cause more
bleeding.
3. Avoid foods or activities that create suction in the mouth (No
smoking, straws, rinsing, etc)
4. Avoid hot or spicy foods and beverages (coffee, tea, soup). Let
food and drink cool before eating today. On the day of surgery most
people find cool soft foods (ice cream, yogurt) soothing.
5. A soft diet is advisable for the next few days. Avoid food with
sharp edges such as chips, crackers, and toast for the next
week.
6. Do not smoke for minimum 24 hours.
7. Place the ice pack on your cheek in the area of the surgery. Ice
is most effective if applied for 20 minutes and then removed for 20
minutes in succession throughout the first day.
8. Start pain relievers BEFORE your anesthesia wears off. Unless
otherwise specified, start with Ibuprofen 600mg (three 200mg
tablets) every six hours.
9. Take other medications as prescribed. If you have been given a
prescription for antibiotics, you will need to complete the entire
course of medication prescribed to minimize the chance for
infection.
10. Avoid drinking alcohol or driving if taking prescription
medication.
Tomorrow
1. Once the bleeding has subsided, begin gentle rinsing with
chlorohexidine rinse (Perio Plus) three times per day (after
breakfast, lunch and before bedtime) as directed on the bottle.
Gently trace the surgical area and adjacent teeth with a Q-tip
dipped in chlorhexidine.
2. You may additionally rinse with warm salt water (½ tsp. salt to
8oz glass of water) between chlorohexidine rinses.
3. Brush your teeth gently with a soft toothbrush but avoid the
surgical area for the next two weeks.
4. Avoid vigorous exercise and excessive talking for the next 3
days.
General Surgical Considerations
Bruising - Minor bruising after surgery is a normal
response and is no cause for alarm. It will improve in 7-14
days.
Stiffness and Swelling - Some jaw muscles stiffness and
swelling is common, especially after longer procedures. This is
normal and will improve in 7-14 days. After the first day, moist
heat application with a warm wash cloth and Ibuprofen will help
relieve some of these symptoms.
Stitches - Most stitches used will not dissolve on their own
and must be removed at your follow – up appointment. Never pull at
loose stitches or attempt to remove them yourself.
Pain - Most post-surgical pain is improves by the third
day. If pain or swelling is increasing on the fourth day or later
after the surgery, call the office to speak with Dr. Hopkins.