Please carefully follow the Doctor's instructions listed for you below because the proper care of your mouth following dental surgery will reduce pain, avoid complications, and speed healing.

1. Protecting Blood Clots … Maintain firm pressure by biting on a moist gauze that has been placed directly over surgical area, or by biting on a tea bag that has been moistened and wrapped in a piece of gauze. Keep steady, firm pressure for 25 minutes. Remove gauze and check for bleeding. If bleeding is present, moisten gauze and repeat the procedure as often as necessary to control bleeding.
   
   
2. Discomfort … Following dental surgery it is normal to experience some discomfort. Take the medication that has been prescribed as instructed. Be sure to take the pain medication before feeling has returned.
   
   
3. The Toothbrush … Brushing should be carefully done in the area of the mouth not involved by the surgical procedures starting 48 hours after surgery. A clean mouth heals faster!
   
   
4. Eating … Adequate food and fluid intake following surgery is important. If you find that eating your regular diet is too difficult you may supplement your diet with liquids such as Carnation Instant Breakfast or Ensure. If you are not able to chew solid foods of any nature for several days or longer, follow a nutritionally balanced, soft diet.
   
   
5. For 10 Days … Avoid all excessive physical activity (i.e. weight lifting, jogging or aerobic exercise), don't pick at the surgical area, don't sneeze with your mouth closed, don't consume alcoholic beverages, don't smoke, and don't drink through a straw.
   
   
6. Sutures … If sutures were used, do not fail to return for their removal on the appointment date given. This is very important as they can delay healing.
   
   
7. Control of Swelling … For the first 48 hours, gently apply ice packs to the face in the surgery area for periods of 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off. After 48 hours, warm, moist towels may be applied to the face in the surgery area for 20 minutes at a time to speed reduction of swelling.
   
   
8. Allergic Reactions … For generalized rash or itching, discontinue medications and call the office promptly.