Initial Visit

Post-Operative Instructions What you should do after periodontal or dental implant surgery.

Initial Care
Surgical Dressings
Bleeding

Swelling
Discomfort
Antibiotics

Sutures
Diet

Do not rinse during the first two hours following surgery. Avoid exertion the first 24 hours. While your lips and tongue are numb, take care not to bite them.
Beginning the first night following surgery, gently brush and floss your teeth in the non-surgical areas. You may find it more comfortable to use warm water.
On the morning following surgery, begin using the oral rinse as instructed – if prescribed. A cotton swab may be used to gently clean the surface of the teeth in the area of the surgery if desired. If applicable refer to Surgical Dressing below.
Avoid vigorous rinsing, as bleeding may occur. Avoid smoking after surgery.
A slight amount of bleeding while performing oral hygiene procedures should be expected for a week or so following surgery.

If a dressing was used, do not clean over the surgical area, but continue to keep the rest of your mouth clean.
The dressing placed in your mouth is for your comfort. Small pieces of the dressing may break off. This is expected. If a large piece or the entire dressing comes off and you do not experience excessive discomfort, there is no need for concern. Simply clean the surgical area as instructed above.
As it takes one to two hours for the dressing to harden, avoid eating, drinking hot liquids, or excessive talking during this period.

There may be occasional blood stains in your saliva during the first few days. This is normal and to be expected.
Excessive bleeding is neither normal nor to be expected. If bleeding is excessive, apply moist gauze or a tea bag moistened in warm water on each side of the surgical area or dressing and hold it with firm, continuous pressure for 30 minutes. Repeat this procedure if necessary.
Do not spit, vigorously rinse mouth, smoke, drink through a straw, or clench teeth.
Avoid strenuous exercise including aerobics, golf and swimming.
If excessive bleeding continues, please call our office.

A slight amount of swelling and/or bruising may occur on the first or second day following surgery.
For the first 24 hours, you should apply a cold compress – ice pack – to your face, alternating it on for 15 minutes, then off for 15 minutes, or hold ice water in your mouth.
After the first 24 hours, if swelling has occurred, apply a warm – not hot – moist compress such as a wash cloth to your face in the same manner.

When the anesthesia wears off, you should expect some discomfort. If needed, take the pain medication prescribed for you. WARNING: Do not drink alcoholic beverages or drive an automobile while taking these medications.
Avoid clinching or grinding your teeth.

If antibiotics are prescribed, take them as directed until all have been taken. If a rash or any other type of allergic reaction should occur, discontinue use and call our office.