Post-operative Instructions
These instructions apply to the surgical procedure just completed. They are designed to help you minimize post-surgical discomfort and inform you of any situation that may require special attention. Post-operative complications most often occur with patients that do not follow the post-operative instructions.
Pain Medications
It is not unusual to have discomfort for at least the first week following your surgical procedure. You may be given a prescription for medication to help you tolerate the post-surgical recovery period. Please take your medications as directed. It is advisable to not take pain medication on an empty stomach, as nausea may result.
As an alternative to prescription medications, some patients have found alternating a combination of over-the-counter Ibuprofen and Tylenol to be effective. You may take either of the following dosages: 3 Advil REGULAR STRENGTH (200mg) Liqui-Gels or 2 EXTRA STRENGTH Tylenol (500mg), every 4 hours alternating (not at the same time).
Note: When taking any prescribed medication containing Acetaminophen (Tylenol), i.e.; Percocet, Oxycontin, or Tylenol with Codeine (Tylenol #3), you should not take additional Tylenol (unless directed by Dr. Usman) so as not to exceed the safety level of Acetaminophen. Please contact the office with any questions you may have.
Antibiotics
Please alert the office to any allergies or sensitivities that you might have to antibiotics. An antibiotic may be prescribed following your surgical procedure. Take as directed until gone. It is advisable not to take these medications on an empty stomach, as nausea may result. For women taking birth control pills, be advised that antibiotics may interfere with their effectiveness. If you notice the antibiotic is causing a rash, swelling or an upset stomach, please contact Dr. Usman immediately and discontinue use of the antibiotic medication until further notice.
Swelling
Swelling may occur following your surgical procedure and will typically increase 2-3 days after the procedure. To minimize the swelling, place an ice pack wrapped in a towel (such that direct contact of the frozen surface is not on your skin) over the outside cheek area for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. Continue using ice for 2-3 days following the procedure as often as possible.
Bleeding
A small amount of bleeding is normal. If excessive or continuous bleeding occurs:
- Do not rinse your mouth.
- Elevate your head when lying down.
- Apply moistened gauze to the immediate area with moderate pressure for 20 minutes; repeat if necessary.
- rinse a tea bag in cold water and squeeze any excess water out; apply pressure with the moistened tea bag to the source of bleeding; apply pressure for 20 minutes.
- Call the office if bleeding persists.
Dressing
The dressing (which acts as a bandage) is used to protect the surgical site and help reduce discomfort. If the dressing comes off or is uncomfortable, please call the office for direction.
Diet
Until comfortable, avoid chewing on the side where surgery was completed. Avoid hot foods and liquids for approximately 1 hour following the surgery so as not to soften the protective dressing. A soft diet is recommended. Foods such as cottage cheese, oatmeal, soup, eggs, yogurt, pasta, mashed potatoes, casseroles, and fruits are more easily eaten. Remember, adequate nutrition is essential for feeling better as well as for healing.
Smoking
Do not smoke for at least 2 weeks following your surgical procedure. It will significantly slow healing and can compromise results.
Alcohol
Do not drink alcohol for the first 7 days following your procedure as well while taking prescription pain medications.
Rinsing
Do not rinse for the first 24 hours. After that, you may use a mild, diluted mouthwash that is given or prescribed to you. Repeat as necessary to help keep the dressing clean (if applicable).
Brushing
Do not brush the surgical site. You may resume normal brushing/flossing in other areas the following day. Dr. Usman and/or his team will inform you of the ideal time to resume your brushing of the surgical site.
Suture Removal
You may notice increased discomfort 3-4 days after the surgical procedure. As the tissues begin to heal, they may pull against the sutures and dressing. You may choose to take some form of pain medication one hour prior to your suture removal appointment to minimize tenderness. If you are a patient for whom Antibiotic Pre-Medication is required, take the prescribed antibiotics 1 hour prior to your suture removal appointment.
Contact Us
Should you have any questions or concerns during regular office hours, please do not hesitate to contact us at Durham Periodontics Phone Number 905-448-0644 or via email at [email protected].