Post Operative Instructions
Instructions Following Periodontal / Implant Surgery
Read and follow these guidelines for maximum comfort and fewer post-operative problems
1. BLEEDING: Keep biting on the gauze(s) for about 1 hour if directed. Replace with the gauze distributed if bleeding continues after this time. Remember to moisten with water before placing in the mouth. We expect minor oozing for up to 24 hours after surgery; but if heavy bleeding occurs, please contact us.
2. SWELLING: Some swelling is NORMAL after surgery. If swelling is expected, you will be given an ice pack to place adjacent to the surgery site(s) for the next 2 to 3 hours. Use the pack 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off, and so on. Swelling is usually greatest between 2 - 3 days. Keep your head elevated above the level of your heart during the first 24 hours after surgery
3. MEDICATIONS: Take your pills as strictly as instructed. Do not drink alcoholic drinks or take other medicine without checking. Take pills with a full glass of water or juice to lower the chance of getting nauseated. If you do become sick and it continues, notify us. PAIN: Ibuprofen 800 mg (4 tablets) every 6-8 hours or Aleve 1 tablet every 12 hours.
4. FLUIDS: Drink plenty of fluids for the next few days DO NOT USE A STRAW!!
5. DIET: Eat whatever feels comfortable (such as soups and soft foods) for a few days. e.g. Instant Breakfast Foods Do not use this time to start a diet. This could be detrimental to healing. Please avoid chewing in the area of surgery.
6. ACTIVITY: Reduce your activities for the next 2-3 days. Avoid running or strenuous activity and lifting anything in excess of 15 lbs.
7. BRUSHING: A clean mouth heals faster! Exercise caution not to injure the surgery site(s). The surgical site should not be disturbed for the first week post-operatively.
8. MOUTHRINSES: Gently rinse your mouth with warm water after each meal to keep the areas clean. You need not add salt to the water. Use any prescribed mouthrinse (Chlorhexidine, etc) as directed. Please do not start until 2 days following your surgery.
9. AVOID: Smoking, alcoholic drinks and commercial mouthrinses (Listerine, Scope, etc) for at least 72 hours following surgery - ideally longer!
10. SUTURES:
- No sutures were placed.
- Sutures will dissolve. Removal is only necessary if they become untied and dangle.
- Sutures will not dissolve
Please do not disturb the sutures with your tongue, toothbrush, or other manner since this will impair healing.
11. PROBLEMS: If you have any problems or questions about your healing during non office hours please contact Dr. Sutherland at 405-334-9044.
Edwin E. Sutherland II, DDS, MS and family Diplomate, American Board of Periodontology