Post-Operative Instructions     (Click HERE for a PDF of the instructions)

Post-operative care is important following oral surgery and proper recovery may be delayed if this care is neglected. 

Bleeding 

• Place a gauze pack onto the area that is bleeding and bite firmly. 

• Keep the gauze in place for at least 30 minutes, applying continuous pressure. 

• If bleeding continues, place a new gauze pack onto the area and continue pressure for another 30 minutes. 

• Repeat this cycle until bleeding stops. 

Swelling 

• Swelling and stiffness are expected. This swelling may increase over the next 48-72 hours, and then it should start to subside. 

• Ice may be used for the first 24 hours, applying it to the cheeks for 20 minutes and removing it for 20 minutes alternately. 

• Swelling and stiffness may be relieved by warm moist heat applied to the jaws on the 2nd and 3rd days following surgery. 

• While resting, be sure to keep your head elevated. 

Medications 

• To avoid stomach discomfort, be sure to eat 30 minutes before taking medication (carbohydrates are recommended). 

• Avoid alcoholic beverages. Alcohol may react adversely with your medication. 

• If any itching, rashes or vomiting occur, discontinue all medications and call our office immediately. 

• Women please note: Some antibiotics may interfere with the effectiveness of your birth control pills. Please check with your physician. 

Nausea and Vomiting 

• Carbonated beverages may help, such as Coke or Ginger Ale. Ingestion of carbohydrates such as toast or crackers often helps as well. 

• Avoid acidic fluids. 

• Please call our office if it persists. 

THE FIRST 24 HOURS ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT – PLEASE REFRAIN FROM THE FOLLOWING: 

If you received an intravenous (IV) sedation, DO NOT drive an automobile, operate machinery, sign any legal documents or return to school/work for the remainder of the day. A responsible adult should attend to you while you are recovering. 

AVOID: straws, spitting forcibly, smoking, strenuous activities, hot liquids and vigorous rinsing (doing so may dislodge the important first blood clot and interrupt the healing process). 

TO BEGIN 24 HOURS AFTER SURGERY: 

• Salt water rinses: 1 cup of warm water with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Gently rinse and drain. Repeat rinses 3-4 times/day. 

• Brushing teeth can be gently started. 

THE FOLLOWING SHOULD CAUSE NO CONCERN: 

Slight post-operative oozing of blood for several hours. Continued swelling following surgery over the next 48-72 hours. Moderate discomfort controllable by medications. Discoloration of the skin of the face in the area of the surgical site. Slightly elevated temperature within the first 24 hours. 

THE OFFICE SHOULD BE CONTACTED IF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING COMPLICATIONS ARISE: 

Uncontrollable bleeding. Severe uncontrollable pain. Swelling which has its initial onset after the first 72 hours following surgery. A marked increase in temperature. 

IF ANY OTHER PROBLEMS ARISE, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. 

(586) 731-9050 Office Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 

REFILLS ON PRESCRIPTIONS WILL BE GIVEN DURING REGULAR BUSINESS HOURS ONLY. 

Due to changes in the State Pharmacy, a lot of pain medications that we prescribe can no longer be called in after hours. Please adhere to the directions for the use of your medications.