Post-Op Instructions Surgery

  1. Bite on gauze for 30 minutes.  Do not chew on the gauze. Change gauze every 30-45 min depending on bleeding.
  2. Do not smoke for 24 hours.
  3. Do not use a straw to drink for 24 hours.
  4. Brush remaining teeth 3 times daily, but do not rinse or use a mouthwash the day of surgery.
  5. Take medicines as directed.
  6. If pain increases after 48 hours or if abnormal bleeding continues, call your dentist.
  7. To prevent bleeding and swelling, keep your head elevated on 2 or 3 pillows while you rest and/or sleep.
  8. Do not spit.  Spitting will cause more bleeding.  Excess saliva and a little blood may appear as a lot of bleeding.
  9. If bleeding starts again, put gauze, a clean white cloth, or a damp tea bag over the bleeding area and bite on it with firm steady pressure for 1 hour.  Do not chew on it.
  10. Ice packs can be used immediately after surgery and for the next 24 hours to reduce swelling.  Keep ice packs on 20 minutes and off 20 minutes.
  11. Black and blue marks are bruises and may occur after surgery.  Usually you do not notice them.  Sometimes the skin is discolored.  Do not worry about this.
  12. Drink lots of liquids and you must eat.