POST-OPERATIVE CARE (POI) for
ORAL & PERIODONTAL SURGERY
For your comfort and rapid healing, we suggest for:
- BLEEDING
A minor amount of bleeding is expected. Bite firmly for 1 Hour with the Gauze that is in your mouth. Change the 2 Gauze squares for new Gauze in 1 hour from now. If the bleeding is not controlled within two hours, place Gauze or a Tea Bag over the area & repeat.
- PAIN
For discomfort or soreness, extra-strength Tylenol or Ibuprofen (Advil) is very effective – one or two tablets every four hours as needed for pain. If a Prescription for Pain Medicine and/or Antibiotics was given, please follow directions on the bottle carefully.
- SWELLING
To Reduce Swelling: On the first day only, apply Ice wrapped in a towel against the cheek or lip for 15 minutes, then take the Ice off for 15 minutes. Repeat in 1/2 hour increments. To speed Healing: On following days, apply Heat for 15 minutes. Repeat in 1/2 hour increments.
- RINSING
Warm Salt Water rinses 4 times a day (use 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) are soothing and help healing when used. Start rinsing your mouth later this evening after surgery.
- ORAL HYGIENE
Keeping your mouth clean speeds up the healing process, so continue brushing your teeth at least twice a day and use dental floss daily. For the first few days you can be gentle around the area we worked on. After one week, return to your usual thorough brushing and flossing techniques.
- SUTURES / PACKING
If a Perio Pack or Stitches were placed, they will be removed in about 1 week, when we check the healing process. If it comes loose or a part falls off, it is usually not necessary to replace it.
- CAUTION
Avoid eating or drinking until the Anesthesia wears off. Do NOT drink with a straw, or spit (which may loosen the blood clot and injure the healing area). Avoid Alcohol & Smoking. Soft foods are good choices until you can chew without difficulty. Avoid spicy & citrus foods.
With best wishes for your Dental Health,
Dr. LAUREN FRIEDMAN, DDS & Staff
West Los Angeles, CA n6lrn@yahoo.com
1-800-801-8730 www.HumorDentist.com