Post-Operative Instructions for Dental Patients

Following your oral surgery, proper care is essential for a smooth recovery. Please read and follow these instructions carefully:

1. Bleeding Control

• Immediate Care: After the procedure, some bleeding is normal. Bite firmly on the gauze pad placed over the surgical site for 30-45 minutes. If bleeding continues, replace the gauze with a fresh one and bite down for another 30 minutes.
• Avoid Disturbance: Do not spit, rinse vigorously, or use a straw for the first 24 hours, as these actions can dislodge the blood clot and prolong bleeding.
• Elevate Your Head: Keep your head elevated with pillows when lying down to help reduce bleeding.
• Tea Bags: If bleeding persists, place a damp tea bag (containing tannic acid) over the site and bite down for 30 minutes. The tannic acid helps to form a clot by constricting blood vessels.

2. Pain Management

• Medications: Take any prescribed pain medications as directed. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also be taken as advised by your dentist or surgeon.
• Avoid Aspirin: Do not take aspirin as it can increase bleeding. In general any form of “blood thinners” should be avoided.

3. Swelling Reduction

• Ice Packs: Apply an ice pack to the outside of your face in the surgical area for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off, for the first 24-48 hours. This helps minimize swelling.
• Heat Application: After 48 hours, you can switch to warm, moist heat to help reduce swelling and discomfort.

4. Oral Hygiene

• Gentle Rinsing: After 24 hours, rinse your mouth gently with a warm saltwater solution (1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water) several times a day, especially after meals. Do not use commercial mouth rinses.
• Brushing: Brush your teeth carefully, avoiding the surgical site. Be gentle around sutures to avoid disturbing them.

5. Suture Care

• Avoid Disturbance: Do not touch or play with the sutures with your fingers or tongue.
• Resorbable Sutures: If you have resorbable sutures, they will dissolve on their own in about 1-2 weeks.
• Non-Resorbable Sutures: If non-resorbable sutures were placed, you will need to return to the office for removal as scheduled by your dentist or surgeon.

6. Diet and Nutrition

• Soft Foods: Stick to soft foods and liquids for the first few days. Avoid hot, spicy, and crunchy foods that can irritate the surgical site.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids but avoid using straws. Sip from a glass to prevent dislodging the blood clot.

7. Activity Restrictions

• Rest: Take it easy for the first 24-48 hours. Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting to prevent increased bleeding and swelling.
• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: These can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.

8. Signs of Complications

• Excessive Bleeding: If bleeding continues despite following the instructions, contact your dentist or surgeon immediately.
• Infection Signs: Look out for signs of infection such as increased swelling, redness, persistent pain, fever, or pus drainage.
• Dry Socket: Severe pain and foul odor 3-4 days post-surgery could indicate a dry socket. Contact your dentist if you experience these symptoms.

9. Follow-Up

• Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.

If you have any questions or experience any unusual symptoms, please do not hesitate to contact our office. Your comfort and recovery are our top priorities.

Contact Information:

• Office Phone: [Your Dental Office Phone Number]
• Emergency Contact: [Emergency Contact Number]

Take care and we wish you a speedy recovery!