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Do not disturb the wound. Avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the wound on the day of surgery. There will be a metal healing abutment protruding through the gingival (gum) tissue.
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Some bleeding is normal for 24 hours. If bleeding continues please call for further instructions.
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Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling, apply ice pack for the first 36 – 48 hours.
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You should begin taking pain medication as soon as you feel the local anesthetic wearing off. For moderate pain, 1 or 2 pills of Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol may be taken every 4 – 6 hours. Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) may be taken instead of Tylenol. For severe pain, the prescribed medication should be taken as directed. Do not take any of the above medication if you are allergic, or have been instructed by your doctor not to take them.
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Be sure to take the prescribed antibiotics as directed to help prevent infection. Discontinue antibiotic use in the event of a rash or other unfavorable reaction. Call our office for further instruction.
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Drink plenty of fluids, eat soft food on the day of surgery. Return to a normal diet as soon as possible unless otherwise directed.
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Good oral hygiene is essential for healing. The day of surgery, use the prescribed Peridex Oral Rinse. Be sure to rinse for at least 30 seconds then spit it out. Warm salt water rinses (teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) should be used at least 4-5 times a day, especially after meals. Brushing your teeth and the healing abutments is no problem.
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Smoking is a great irritation to the surgical site. Smoking should be avoided during the healing period.
