POST SURGICAL INSTRUCTIONS

1. Do not use a drinking straw, spit or use mouthwash (Scope, Listerine, etc.) for 3 days after surgery. 24 hours after surgery, use warm salt water or Periogard (if prescribed) in a gentile soaking action, allowing the excess to fall out of the mouth. The pressure built-up in the mouth by straws & spitting can cause dry sockets.
2. During the first 3 days after surgery, drink plenty of fluids (at least an average of 8oz. per hour) and eat soft foods (i.e. yogurt; scrambled eggs; mashed sweet potatoes; etc.) This is crucial for post-surgery recovery and healing, and will decrease nausea, vomiting and dizziness after surgery. The more you eat and drink, the better you will feel. 
3. No smoking, chewing tobacco or alcoholic beverages for 5 days (smoking may cause “dry sockets”).
4. Pain Management: Take ALL medications as directed. Take 600mg (3 over-the-counter tablets) of Ibuprofen (Motrin) 4 times per day at breakfast, lunch, dinner and right before bed. Continue this for 3-5 days. Consistency is key to minimizing swelling and discomfort. If additional pain management is needed, you can take 1 dose of Tylenol up to 3 times per day halfway between doses of Ibuprofen. If discomfort is still unmanageable, please call your doctor. 
5. Sutures are customarily dissolvable and will not need to be removed unless directed.
6. Limit all activities accordingly for 3-5 days. It is important to keep blood pressure down to help initial healing.
7. Maintain good oral hygiene.  Brush twice daily and gently rinse to remove toothpaste. You may gently dab the surgical site(s) with a toothbrush after 3 or 4 days.
8. After implant placement, maintain a soft diet for 6 weeks.  Avoid excessive forces on implant site(s) for 3 months.

 

        You SHOULD Expect                                                             You Should NOT Expect

         Mild bleeding                                                                  Severe Hemorrhaging

       Swelling (should peak 2-3 days)                                   Fever associated w/chills

       Muscle stiffness w/limited mouth opening                Severe chills

       Slight temperature                                                         Respiratory difficulties

       Some discomfort for up to 1 week                               

On behalf of our entire dental team, we are dedicated to providing you with the optimal oral health care throughout your post-surgery healing process.