After Surgical Treatment

Take medication as directed.  START BEFORE ANESTHESIA WEARS OFF.  It will be more effective in minimizing post –operative discomfort.

• In order to keep possible swelling to a minimum, the use of an ice pack on the face over the surgical area is recommended.  The ice pack should be used - 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off for the first 3-5 hours following surgery.
  
• You may lie in bed to rest however, your back must be elevated to avoid further swelling.
  
• In order to prevent tearing of the sutures and not retard healing, DO NOT RAISE YOUR LIP TO LOOK AT THE TREATED AREA.
  
• Mild oozing of blood, some swelling, mild discomfort and/or skin discoloration may be experienced.  This will be temporary.  If a temperature or excess bleeding should develop, call our office immediately.
  
• Avoid hot liquids and eat only soft foods for the first 48 hours.  Use your own judgment after this period but avoid hard or chewy foods until your next visit. We recommend a cold liquid diet for the remaining day of surgery.
  
• No strenuous exercise should be performed for 3 days following surgery
• No smoking for at least 24 hours after surgery.
  
• Do not brush your teeth near the operated area until your follow up appointment; this will usually be a week post surgery.   Brush your teeth in the rest of the mouth.
  
• Starting the day after surgery, lightly rinse your mouth with the antibacterial rinse prescribed.  Do this following each meal and before bedtime.
  
• Get plenty of rest and insure normal intake of food, especially liquids such as fruit juices, soups and milk.
  
• We will see you in one week to evaluate healing and to remove sutures (if applicable).  Should any difficulties arise in the meantime, please do not hesitate to call our office at any time - day, night or weekend.
• Continue taking any prescription drugs as directed.
• In some cases a biopsy of the infected tissue might be necessary. This will be sent to an oral pathology lab for examination. Any additional fee for this service will be billed directly to you by the laboratory.