Post-Op General Instructions
You will be given specific post-operative instructions for your particular procedure. If you have any questions, call our office.
Medications
Pre-operative medications may be given to you depending on your procedure. Be sure to take them according to the instructions given to you by our surgeon or staff.
Pain Control
Most oral surgery comes with some degree of discomfort. Ibuprofen and Tylenol (acetaminophen) taken together are our main protocol for pain control and are usually enough.
Take your first dose before the local anesthetic wears off. You will be able to manage discomfort better.
Sometimes a narcotic pain medication may be needed. If one is prescribed, take it with food, as directed.
Swelling
Swelling is common after oral surgery. To minimize it, place a cold pack on the cheek next to the surgical area, 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off, for the first 48 hours.
After 48 hours, switch to a warm compress on the skin. Heat increases blood flow to help resolve swelling.
Diet
Depending on your procedure, there may be diet limitations. Please follow the instructions for your specific procedure.
For implant and bone graft cases, do not chew in the area of the implant or bone graft. Movement of the implant or graft can cause it to fail.
Smoking
As with any surgery, healing after oral surgery can be hindered by smoking or tobacco use. For complex bone grafting, complication rates of up to 50% are reported in smokers.
Wound Care
You will be given specific wound care instructions for your procedure.
We want your recovery to be as smooth and comfortable as possible. Following these instructions will help, but if you have any questions about your progress, please call the office to speak with one of us.