Bleeding

A certain amount of bleeding is to be expected following surgery. Slight bleeding, oozing, or redness in the saliva is not uncommon. Excessive bleeding may be controlled by first rinsing or wiping any old clots from your mouth, then placing a gauze pad over the area and biting firmly for one hour. Repeat if necessary. If bleeding continues, bite on a moistened tea bag for one hour. The tannic acid in the tea bag helps to form a clot by contracting bleeding vessels. To minimize further bleeding, sit upright and avoid rigorous activity. Bleeding should decrease hour by hour with the above instructions.  If bleeding does not subside, call for further instructions.

Swelling

Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling, apply an ice bag on the cheek in the area of surgery. Apply the ice 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off as much as possible for the first 36 hours.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or food. Soft food and liquids should be eaten on the day of surgery. Return to a normal diet as soon as possible unless otherwise directed.

Pain

For moderate pain, one or two tablets of Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol may be taken as directed or Ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) may be taken as directed.

For severe pain, take the prescribed medication as directed. The prescribed pain medicine may cause drowsiness. Do not drive an automobile or work around machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Pain or discomfort following surgery should subside more and more every day. If pain persists, it may require attention and you should call our office.

Oral Hygiene

Mouth cleanliness is essential to good healing. Gentle warm water rinses can be done on the day of surgery if needed.  No rigorous rinsing should be done until the day following surgery. Clean your mouth thoroughly after each meal beginning the day after surgery. Brush your teeth as best you can. Rinse with warm water six times a day. Continue this procedure until healing is complete.

Remember: A clean wound heals better and faster.

Activity

Keep physical activities to a minimum immediately following surgery. If you are considering exercise, throbbing or bleeding may occur. Be aware that your normal nourishment intake is reduced. If you get light headed, stop exercising.