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Bleeding
Mild bleeding is expected for the first few hours. It's common to see some oozing and discoloration of saliva. Firm pressure with a piece of gauze for 20 minutes usually controls mild bleeding well. If bleeding persists, please call your doctors.
Swelling
Some swelling is common after your appointment. Apply ice packs to your face, 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off, for the next 4-6 hours to minimize swelling. If you have excessive swelling in the area of surgery or in the neck, please call you doctor as soon as possible.
Discomfort
Some discomfort and tooth sensitivity are not uncommon after your surgery. Tylenol or Ibuprofen-like drugs (e.g. Advil or Motrin) work well for mild to moderate discomfort. Do not take aspirin-containing drugs which may prolong bleeding. If needed, please take the prescribed medication(s) as directed on the container(s).
Warning: Narcotic-containing pain medication(s) (e.g. Tylenol #3 and Vicodin) may cause lightheadedness, nausea, drowsiness, and vomiting. Take pain medication(s) with food to minimize stomach upset. Do not take pain medication(s) with alcoholic beverages and do not operate hazardous machinery or drive while you are taking medication(s).
Activities
For the remaining day of surgery and the following day after your visit, limit your schedule to light events. Do not drink alcoholic beverages and smoke for 48 hours after your appointment
Diet
Avoid chewing food until the numbness wears off. Limit yourself to mild cool food (yogurt, ice cream, mashed potatoes, etc.). Avoid chewing in the area of surgery for the first week if possible. Avoid hard, hot, and spicy food. Only rinse your mouth with cold liquid.
Tissue Dressing
A pink periodontal dressing may be applied on your surgical area(s) to protect them from trauma (e.g. food impaction) and to provide you with initial comfort. Warm food and liquid may soften the dressing and cause it to be dislodged early. If it becomes loose, it's fine to remove it. Healing of tissue will NOT be delayed without the dressing.
Oral Hygiene
Practicing excellent daily oral hygiene by brushing your teeth and tongue and flossing will promote tissue healing, reduce post-surgical complications, and reduce discomfort. Avoid brushing and flossing on the surgical area(s) for the first week. The prescribed antimicrobial oral rinse will help you control the presence of oral bacteria.
Oral Rinse
No rinsing for at least 4-6 hours after surgery. You may rinse off your mouth gently with warm salt water the evening of surgery. If you have been prescribed antimicrobial oral rinse (e.g. Peridex, Chlorhexidine rinse, etc), start rinsing as directed the day after surgery.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are usually not required for your routine periodontal treatment. Report any adverse reactions with antibiotics to your doctors. Take antibiotics with food to avoid stomach upset. Complete antibiotics as directed even if your symptoms are improving.
WARNING: Antibiotics may reduce the effectiveness of your birth-control pills, so please practice additional forms of contraception during antibiotic use and for one full week after antibiotic therapy.
If you have any questions regarding the post-surgical instructions, please call Doctor Wu to discuss your concerns.
Pre-Surgical Instructions | Periodontal Disease Risk Assessment
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