The following advice is offered to minimize the discomfort and optimize healing that may follow periodontal surgery. Some of the comments may not apply to your specific case.
Bleeding
If you are on any anticoagulants notify us prior to surgery so we can discuss this with your primary physician. Let us know what you are taking for vitamins and herbal supplements. To avoid inducing bleeding, avoid sucking on a straw, spitting, and drinking carbonated beverages the day of surgery. No strenuous exercise the day of surgery. If bleeding does occur, apply non-stop pressure to the area for 20 minutes, and then call the office.
Pain
Celebrex, Ibuprofen, and Tylenol are very effective for pain relief. You will be given a prescription to be taken following surgery. It is important that you take this for at least four days for relief of discomfort and swelling. You will be given a stronger medication if it is necessary. Do not hesitate to call if you are uncomfortable. Do not take extra medicines such as tranquilizers, pain pills, or sleeping pills without consultation. *NOTE* you must read pharmacy literature for all prescriptions provided.
Swelling
Swelling is a natural reaction to any injury and part of the normal course of healing. Surgical procedures are a form of injury. Some swelling is necessary and good, as it brings the cells and fluids that are necessary to heal and repair injured tissues. Please know that swelling peaks on the third to fourth day following surgery, therefore, your prescription taken as directed will greatly diminish any swelling. Ibuprofen should be taken for four full days needed or not! You may find you have more comfort if you wake yourself to take the ibuprofen during the first night or two following surgery.
Temperature
Your body temperature may rise slightly (less than one degree) above normal because of the healing process. If your temperature rises excessively (above 100 degrees F or 38 degrees C) please call as it could mean that an infection is starting.
Smoking
Please refrain from smoking for at least twenty-four hours following a surgical procedure to avoid disruption of the normal clotting process. Smoking contributes to post-operative infections and delays healing.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverages tend to cause dehydration, which may slow healing. NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES WHEN TAKING PAIN PILLS, TRANQUILIZERS, OR SLEEPING PILLS!
Diet
To avoid trauma it is best to wait until the anesthesia has worn off after surgery before eating. If you have trouble chewing, eat soft foods. Resume your normal diet as soon as you are comfortable. Spicy or acidic food/drinks should be avoided on the day of surgery.
Home Care
It is extremely important to avoid brushing and flossing the surgical area until instructed to do so. You will be given specific instructions on how to take care of the area at your follow up appointment. However, you should continue to brush and floss the remaining teeth. Use the prescribed mouth rinse (Chlorhexidine) ONLY twice a day until further instructed. Warm water rinses can be done between meals. You WILL NOT be able to use your electric toothbrush at the surgical site for an extended period of time. Approximately 1-2 months.
Surgical Dressing
If applicable. If a dressing has been placed over a surgical area in your mouth and it becomes displaced or falls out, give us a call for instructions. If the dressing seems loose, do not tug or pull it out as it may be attached to a suture.
Sedation
If (conscious) sedation was used for the procedure, you will not be able to drive or operate machinery or make any financial or legal decisions for 24 hours.
Avoid
It is extremely important that you avoid blowing your nose for several weeks following sinus elevation surgery. It is ok to wipe your nose but do not blow. Avoid the use of ice on the surgical areas. It is not necessary as you are taking the ibuprofen to diminish swelling. Also, ice can cause frost bite on the surgical sites while still numb.
*Note* You must read pharmacy literature for all prescriptions provided.
Please call the office if you have any questions or concerns. Please listen to the answering machine completely for information if Dr. Herrin is away. If the office is closed, please contact:
Dr. Herrin: Cell Phone (603) 759-2684
