These
instructions apply to the surgical procedures that have
been completed. They are designed to instruct you in
procedures that will minimize post-surgical discomfort
and inform you of situations that may require special
attention.
DISCOMFORT
It is not unusual
to have a certain amount of discomfort for a day or two
following your surgical procedure. In many instances,
over the counter pain medications such as Tylenol, Ibuprofen
or Aleve taken according to the manufacturer's instructions
will be sufficient to relieve the discomfort. You may
be given a prescription for a stronger pain reliever
to insure a mild postoperative recovery period. Please
use this medication as needed for the control of severe
pain.
SWELLING
Minor
swelling may follow your surgical procedure. To prevent
or minimize swelling, it is advisable to place an ice
pack over the surgical area, 20 minutes on and 10 minutes
off, for 4 hours immediately following the procedure.
Remember, utilization of a cold compress to reduce swelling
is only effective if used immediately after surgery.
If, after the first 24 hours, swelling has occurred,
apply moist heat to the involved area as often as is
convenient.
BLEEDING
A small
amount of bleeding is all that is necessary to discolor
your saliva. Do not be alarmed, as this is normal. If
excessive bleeding occurs:
1) Discontinue all
rinsing.
2) Sit up in an erect position.
3) Apply
a moistened cold tea bag to the immediate area
for 20 minutes.
If the bleeding continues, please
do not hesitate to call the office.
DRESSING
A
dressing may be used to protect the surgical site. If
small pieces of the dressing fall off, it is of no significant
concern unless the site becomes uncomfortable.
DIET
Avoid hot foods
and hot liquids for the first 4 hours. Soft diets rich
in quality protein, ascorbic acid and vitamin B complex
are especially desirable. Foods such as liver, meat,
eggs, milk, and citrus fruits as well as whole grain
or enriched cereals are recommended. As a rule of thumb,
if it hurts, don't eat it.
RINSING
Do
not rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours. After
24 hours, you may gently rinse your mouth with warm salt
water or mouthrinses such as Chloraseptic or Cepacol.
This will keep the area clean and odor-free. Do not use
a straw for the first 24 hours.
SPECIAL
MEDICATIONS
Antibiotics may
be prescribed for your surgical procedure. It is important
to take all of the antibiotics as prescribed in order
to diminish the chance of postoperative infection. As
a general rule, take medications with a full 8 oz glass
of water and not on an empty stomach. This will decrease
the chance of nausea. Of course, there are exceptions
and these will be noted on your prescription bottle.
PLAQUE
CONTROL
During
the first 24 hours, you are not to rinse or spit as this
may dislodge the clot and cause further bleeding. After
24 hours you may begin to rinse with warm salt water
or a mouthrinse. In the surgical area, you may begin
to brush the teeth gently as soon as you can tolerate
it avoiding the gums. You should avoid the use of floss
or interdental brushes until instructed by the doctor.
In areas not affected by the procedure, you should practice
normal hygiene. The cleaner you keep your teeth and gums,
the faster the area heals and the better your mouth will
feel.
If
any questions or problems arise, please do not hesitate
to contact us by calling:
Gainesville: (352) 376-5155
- Lake City: (386) 758-8444
Do not e-mail the office for
post-op problems. The e-mail is not monitored after office
hours.
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