It is recommended that medication for pain be started before the numbness disappears. Afterward the medication should be taken only as necessary for pain.
After surgery ice can be applied to the face over the area operated on, using it for 10 minutes and then leaving it off for 15 minutes. This helps to minimize pain and swelling, although some sensitivity, swelling, and/or discoloration are not uncommon.
A pink color to the saliva for a day or so after the surgery can be expected. Don’t forget that a little blood and a lot of saliva look like a lot of blood. If excessive bleeding occurs call the office.
Tomorrow, brush the operated areas LIGHTLY with a soft toothbrush. You should also rinse with warm salt water every 3 to 4 hours especially after eating. Areas not operated on can be cleaned normally the day after surgery.
It is very important to keep your diet up. Eat soft things such as ground meat, noodles, soup, instant breakfast, or cereal. Avoid hard crunchy foods. If you keep your diet up you will heal faster and feel better.
Do not smoke, drink with a straw, or spit strongly as these activities will promote further bleeding. Do not drink alcohol with the medication prescribed.
The surgery area occasionally has a perio-pack or “band aid.” This is for your comfort. The entire pack or parts may come off; this is not something to be worried about.
Stitches in the gums may come loose, dissolve, or may be lost; again, this should not be a problem.
Call the office if you have any questions 1 713-981-4600.