Congratulations on completing your surgical procedure. The healing process is now underway, and it’s important to follow these instructions to ensure a smooth and effective recovery. Remember, every patient heals differently, so healing times may vary.
What to Expect
- Discomfort: Mild pain or discomfort is normal for a few days and should improve daily. Manage pain with prescribed or over-the-counter medications as directed.
- Mild Bleeding: You may notice blood or orange-tinted saliva for several hours after surgery. Light oozing is normal.
- Swelling: Swelling often peaks within the first 48 hours and can last for 3-4 days before subsiding.
- Numbness: Anesthesia effects may last for 1 to 6 hours, depending on your metabolism.
Post-Treatment Care Instructions
1. Bleeding Control
- Use Gauze: Bite firmly on gauze for 30 minutes to control bleeding. Replace only if instructed by your dentist.
2. Pain Management
- Medications: Take prescribed medications as directed. If no prescription was given, take 1 Ibuprofen with 2 Acetaminophens, provided you have no allergies. Start before the anesthesia wears off for effective relief.
3. Activity Restrictions
- First 24-48 Hours: Avoid rinsing, spitting, using straws, or sucking on candies.
- First 3 Days: Avoid sun exposure, strenuous physical activity, and consuming hot or hard foods.
- First 10 Days: Avoid swimming, eating raw fish or meat, and touching or sucking on the wound.
4. Oral Care
- Medication: Complete all prescribed medications as instructed.
- Mouth Rinse: Begin rinsing after 24 hours using a prescribed mouthwash or warm saltwater solution (1 teaspoon salt in 1 glass of warm water).
- Chewing: Chew on the opposite side of the surgical site until comfortable.
- Brushing and Flossing: Gently clean the treated area for the first 24 hours. Gradually resume normal pressure over the next week.
5. Smoking
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products for at least 3 days to promote healing and reduce infection risk.
6. Stitches
- Removal: If stitches were placed, schedule an appointment for removal 8 days after surgery or as instructed by your dentist.
When to Contact Us
- Excessive Bleeding: Continuous deep red bleeding from the wound.
- Persistent Symptoms: Pain that worsens, fever, swelling lasting longer than 4 days, or signs of infection (e.g., pus).
- Numbness: If numbness persists beyond 6 hours after anesthesia, contact your dentist within 24 hours.
- Adverse Reactions: Report any allergic reactions to medications immediately.
We are here to support your recovery. If you have questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
This instruction applies to Oral Surgery, including dental implants, extractions, and other surgical procedures.