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.
Pain Medications
It is not unusual to have mild discomfort for at least the first week following your surgical procedure. You will be given detailed directions regarding the medications recommended to help you be comfortable during the post-surgical recovery period. Please take your medications as directed. It is advisable to take pain medication with food, to reduce nausea.
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 this as directed until finished. It is advisable not to take these medications on an empty stomach, as nausea may result. For women taking birth control pills, please be advised that antibiotics may interfere with their effectiveness.
Swelling
Swelling may occur following your surgical procedure, and will typically increase for 2-3 days after the procedure. To minimize the swelling, please place an ice pack over the outside cheek area for 10 minutes on, and 10 minutes off. Continue using ice for up to 2 days following the procedure, as often as required.
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.
- Wipe any clot away with a piece of gauze or kleenex, then using gauze or a moistened tea bag place moderate pressure on the bleeding site for 20 to 30 minutes. Repeat as necessary.
- Call the office or Dr. Gainey if bleeding persists.
Periodontal Dressing
The periodontal dressing (which acts as a bandage) is used to protect the surgical site, and to help reduce discomfort. It is normal for small pieces of the dressing to crumble away over time. If a large piece of the dressing comes off causing bleeding or pain, please call the office for direction.
Diet
Avoid chewing on the side where surgery was completed until after your post-surgical appointment. Avoid hot foods and liquids for approximately 3 hours following the surgery. A soft diet is recommended. Foods such as cottage cheese, oatmeal, soups, eggs, yogurt, pasta, mashed potatoes, casseroles, and fruits are more easily eaten. Remember, adequate nutrition is essential for feeling better as well as for good healing.
Smoking
Do not smoke for at least 2 weeks following your surgical procedure. It will significantly slow the healing, and can compromise the final results.
Alcohol
Do not drink alcohol while taking prescription pain medications.
Rinsing
Do not rinse for the first 24 hours following surgery. After that, you may use warm salt water as a mouth soak. Repeat as necessary to help keep the dressing clean.
Brushing
Do not brush the surgical site. You may resume normal brushing/flossing in other areas immediately.
Contact Us
Should you have any questions or concerns during regular office hours, please do not hesitate to contact us at
Okanagan Periodontal and Implant Centre Phone Number 250-763-1111, or Dr. Gainey’s cell phone after hours at 250-826-1113.