Post-Surgical Instructions

Gauze: Apply gauze pressure to the surgical site for twenty minutes repeating the process until the bleeding stops.

Ice: Applying an ice pack early and often for the first 48 hours will help reduce swelling. Ice should be alternated 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off.

Food: Avoid berries, nuts, seeds, popcorn, and crunchy foods. Soft foods such as mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, soups, etc. work well.

Brushing and Flossing: Avoid brushing and flossing the surgical site until advised to resume.

Exercise: Avoid exercise for 2-3 days after surgery.

Straws: Avoiding straws is recommended. The pressure of drinking through a straw can pull out the stitches and the clot, causing a dry socket.

Smoking: We suggest you avoid smoking for two weeks after surgery.

What To Expect After Surgery

Bleeding:

Slight bleeding may occur during the first 12-24 hours after the procedure. If you have difficulty controlling the bleeding please call our office.

Swelling:

You may experience some facial swelling or even slight bruising after surgery. Swelling maximizes 3-4 days after surgery. If swelling does not subside or is accompanied by a fever please call the office.

Color Changes:

The gum tissue may change colors as it heals, this is normal and part of the healing process.

Nausea:

Nausea is occasionally caused by the medications you were prescribed. Eating prior to taking your medications will help reduce the risks of getting nauseous. In some instances, an anti-nausea medication may be prescribed or you may be required to discontinue your prescription.

Loss of Sutures:

Loss of sutures is a common occurrence several days after surgery. Some sutures are dissolvable and other sutures may need be removed.

Sensitivity:

Following periodontal surgery it’s common to experience increased sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweet foods.

Medication Instructions

After your surgery

You may be sent home with one or more of the following. Depending on which you are sent home with, please follow the instructions as stated below:

Antibiotics

Amoxicillin 500mg: For patients who need to pre-medicate, take four tablets one hour prior to surgery.
Amoxicillin 500mg: Take one tablet three times a day for seven days.
Clindamycin 150mg: For patients who need to pre-medicate, take two tablets one hour prior to surgery.
Clindamycin 150mg: Take one tablet four times a day for seven days.
Z-Pak: Take two tablets two hours prior to surgery and then one tablet daily until gone.

Oral Sedation

Halcion: Take the prescribed number of tablets 1 hour before surgery on an empty stomach. The patient will need a driver to and from their appointment.

Pain Medication

Ibuprofen 600mg: Take one tablet every 6-8 hours as needed for pain and swelling.
Acetaminophen: Take one to two tablets every 4-6 hours as needed for pain.
Acetaminophen + Hydrocodone (Valium): Take one tablet every 4-6 hours as needed for pain.

Oral Rinse/Gel

Chlorhexidine: For the first week, rinse and spit one tablespoon twice a day. Starting the second week, swab the surgical site two times a day. *May cause discoloration on the teeth that can be removed at your next scheduled dental cleaning.