Post-Op Instructions for Oral Surgery – Daytona Beach, FL

Proper care of the mouth following most oral surgical procedures can reduce complications and speed the healing of the surgery area. Follow these tips for a smooth recovery:

• Protection of blood clot: Maintain gentle pressure by biting on the gauze sponge that’s placed over the surgical area, or by biting on a tea bag which has been gently moistened and wrapped in a piece of gauze. Keep steady and firm pressure for 60 minutes. Place saturated gauze in a proper trash receptacle. Repeat as often as needed if only bleeding continues.
• Do not rinse: No rinsing or mouthwash for at least 24 hours. After 24 hours, gently rinse with warm water every 1-2 hours as recommended. (The use of commercial mouthwashes during the healing period is not encouraged).
• Discomfort: It is normal to experience some discomfort after surgery. If medication has been given or prescribed, take as indicated.
• Brushing: Carefully brush your teeth in the area of the mouth not involved with surgery. A clean mouth helps promote healing.
• Eating: Consuming adequate food and fluid intake following surgery and/or general extractions is most important. If eating your regular diet is too difficult, you may supplement your diet with liquids such as Carnation Instant Breakfast (CIB/any flavor). Eating food is important for prompt healing following oral surgery. Should you not be able to chew solid foods of any nature for several days or longer, follow a nutritionally balanced liquid diet.
• Avoid: Be sure to avoid all excessive activity and don’t pick at the surgical area. Also, don’t consume liquids through a straw, avoid alcohol, and refrain from smoking until healing is well established.
• Sutures: If they were used, do not fail to return for their removal on the appointment date given.
• Control of swelling: Gently apply ice packs to the area for periods of 20 minutes on, and 10 minutes off. This routine should continue for the first 24 hours only.
• Allergic reactions: For rash, itching, etc., call us immediately.

Please call us if you have any emergency questions or concerns following your procedure.