Post-Op Instructions For Basic Oral Surgery Procedures

Proper care of the mouth following most surgical procedures will reduce the possibility of complications and speed the healing of the surgical area. Please read and follow these instructions carefully.

1. PROTECTION OF THE BLOOD CLOT...Maintain gentle pressure by biting on the gauze sponge that has been placed on the surgical area for at least 45 minutes to an hour. If the bleeding continues, replace the sponge with another as provided. DO NOT SUCK ON THE SURGICAL AREA to see if it is bleeding. This will cause bleeding to begin again. If necessary, spit gently or wipe excess saliva into a tissue. Gentle oozing may occur for up to 24 hours.

2. DO NOT RINSE...or use any mouth washes for 24 hours after surgery. This will disturb the new blood clot. After 24 hours, rinse gently with warm salt water (1/2 tea-spoon of table salt in 8 ounces of warm water). Do this 4 to 6 times a day (especially after eating) until you are seen again by the doctor. DO NOT USE COMMERCIAL MOUTH WASHES DURING THE FIRST WEEK FOLLOWING YOUR SURGERY.

3. SWELLING AND BRUISING...is normal and may not show until 24 hours following surgery.  Bruising is more likely in patients with thin skin having extensive procedures.  Swelling normally increases for the first 3 days and then gradually subsides over the week.  Bruising first occurs as a dark red coloration and progresses to purple and brown before it disappears over a week to 10 days.  It is important to place an ice pack over the affected area for 20 minutes each hour for the first 24 hours.  After day 3, place a moist heating pad (or a towel soaked in hot water) in the same location to expedite this condition.  Also helpful  to keep your head elevated at all times during the initial healing period.

4. DISCOMFORT...Following surgery, some discomfort is to be expected. Take the prescribed or recommended medication as directed to relieve the discomfort. DO NOT MIX YOUR MEDICATIONS WITH ALCOHOL.

5. TOOTHBRUSHING...should be done carefully in all areas of the mouth not involved in the surgery. A clean mouth heals faster.

6. EATING...Adequate food and fluid intake following surgery is VERY IMPORTANT. Drink cool liquids and eat cool soft foods during the first 2 to 3 days after surgery. During the healing period, avoid hot foods and liquids. Avoid spicy foods and those which may be irritating to the surgical area (such as toast or hard bread). NOTE: Inadequate fluid intake may cause you to feel weak and develop a fever from dehydration.

7. AVOID...all excessive activity. DON’T PICK at the surgical area. DON’T consume liquids through a straw. AVOID alcoholic beverages. AVOID smoking until healing is well established.

8. Take all normal medications unless instructed otherwise by Dr. Sultan.

9. It is normal to be seen for a follow up visit within one week of your surgery. Please be sure this appointment is scheduled prior to leaving the office.