Postoperative Instructions
These instructions apply to the surgical procedures that have been completed. They are designed to instruct you in procedures that will minimize post-surgical discomfort and inform you of situations that may require special attention.
DISCOMFORT
It is not unusual to have a certain amount of discomfort for a day or two following your surgical procedure. In many instances, over the counter pain medications such as Tylenol, Ibuprofen or Aleve taken according to the manufacturer's instructions will be sufficient to relieve the discomfort. You may be given a prescription for a stronger pain reliever to insure a mild postoperative recovery period. Please use this medication as needed for the control of severe pain.
SWELLING
Minor swelling may follow your surgical procedure. To prevent or minimize swelling, it is advisable to place an ice pack over the surgical area, 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off, for 4 hours immediately following the procedure. Remember, utilization of a cold compress to reduce swelling is only effective if used immediately after surgery. If, after the first 48 hours, swelling has occurred, apply moist heat to the involved area as often as is convenient.
BLEEDING
A small amount of bleeding is all that is necessary to discolor your saliva. Do not be alarmed, as this is normal. If excessive bleeding occurs:
1) Discontinue all rinsing.
2) Sit up in an erect position.
3) Apply a moistened cold tea bag to the immediate area for 20 minutes.
4) If the bleeding continues, please do not hesitate to call our office.
DRESSING
A dressing may be used to protect the surgical site. If small pieces of the dressing fall off, it is of no significant concern unless the site becomes uncomfortable.
DIET
Avoid hot foods and hot liquids for the first 4 hours. Soft diets rich in quality protein, ascorbic acid and vitamin B complex are especially desirable. Foods such as liver, meat, eggs, milk, and citrus fruits as well as whole grain or enriched cereals are recommended. As a rule of thumb, if it hurts, don't eat it.
RINSING
Do not rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours. After 24 hours, you may gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water, a 1:1 concentration of hydrogen peroxide:water or mouthrinses such as Chloraseptic or Cepacol. This will keep the area clean and odor-free. Do not use a straw for the first 24 hours.
SPECIAL MEDICATIONS
Antibiotics may be prescribed for your surgical procedure. It is important to take all of the antibiotics as prescribed in order to diminish the chance of postoperative infection. As a general rule, take medications with a full 8 oz glass of water and not on an empty stomach. This will decrease the chance of nausea. Of course, there are exceptions and these will be noted on your prescription bottle.
PLAQUE CONTROL
During the first 24 hours, you are not to rinse or spit as this may dislodge the clot and cause further bleeding. After 24 hours you may begin to rinse with warm salt water or a mouthrinse. In the surgical area, you may begin to brush the teeth gently as soon as you can tolerate it avoiding the gums. You should avoid the use of floss or interdental brushes until instructed by the doctor. In areas not affected by the procedure, you should practice normal hygiene. The cleaner you keep your teeth and gums, the faster the area heals and the better your mouth will feel.
If any questions or problems arise, please do not hesitate to contact us by calling our office: (352) 376-5155
Do not e-mail the office for post-op problems. The e-mail is not monitored after office hours.
POST IMPLANT SURGERY INSTRUCTIONS
SWELLING
Minor swelling may follow your surgical procedure. To prevent or minimize swelling it is advisable to use an ice pack over the surgical area, 20 minutes on and 10 minutes off, for four hours immediately following the procedure. Remember, utilization of a cold compress to reduce swelling is only effective if it is used immediately after surgery. If swelling is present 48 hours following surgery, moist heat should be applied to the involved area as often as is convenient.
BLEEDING
A slight amount of bleeding is normal and usually ends within two to three days following surgery. Avoid the use of a straw, vigorous rinsing of the mouth or any other activity that involves negative pressure within the mouth for two days. If excessive bleeding is noted discontinue all rinsing, sit in an upright position and apply a moistened cold tea bag to the immediate area for 20 minutes. If bleeding continues, please contact the office.
ORAL CARE
During the first 24 hours you are not to rinse or spit as this may dislodge the clot and cause further bleeding. After 24 hours you may begin to rinse with warm salt water, a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water or a mouth rinse. In the surgical area you may be directed to use a prescription mouth rinse. You should avoid the use of floss or a toothbrush in direct contact with the implant until advised by your doctor. The cleaner you keep the surgical site the faster the area will heal.Do not wear any appliance that touches your implant(s).
DIET
Avoid hot foods and hot liquids for the first four hours. Soft diets rich in quality protein, ascorbic acid and vitamin B complex are especially desirable. Foods such as milk, eggs, cottage cheese, yogurt and meats are recommended. You should eat a semi soft diet and avoid hard food. When possible, chew on the other side of your mouth. As a rule of thumb, if it hurts, don't eat it.
SMOKING
Smoking dramatically decreases the body’s healing potential, especially in the sinuses. Please do not smoke for 3 weeks following sinus surgery.
SINUS PRECAUTIONS
To keep the sinus graft stable,there are several precautions you should exercise until your first follow up visit. Most importantly, do not blow your nose as this can dislodge the graft. If you have a runny nose, wipe it as necessary. Also, try not to sneeze. If you must sneeze, open your mouth to decrease the amount of pressure applied to the nose and sinus. Do not drink through a straw or rinse forcefully as these actions can cause bleeding at the intraoral surgical site. When sleeping, elevate your head to avoid excess pressure in the sinus. Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 10-14 days.
PSEUDOEPHEDRINE (SUDAFED)
Take 1 tablet twice daily for 10 days unless told otherwise by your doctor.
ANTIBIOTICS AND PAIN RELIEVERS
Use as directed by your doctor.
Follow all other post-operative instruction as listed under DENTAL IMPLANT PLACEMENT.
If any questions or problems arise, please do not hesitate to contact us by calling our office: (352) 376-5155