Oral Surgery

Instructions To Patients Following Oral Surgery

Bite on gauze for 30 min, keep fingers and tongue away from operated area

Do not rinse your mouth for 24 hours although it is permissible to drink cool or lukewarm liquids

Smoking should be avoided for 12 hours

Starting tomorrow, rinse your mouth frequently with a solution of 1/2 a teaspoon of salt in a glass
of warm water. Continue the rinses for a few days.

If you have any discomfort, take whatever you normally take for a headache every few hours. If
necessary the Doctor willl prescribe stronger medication for you.

Diet:
Cold or lukewarm liquids may be taken for the first 4-6 hours. After this any soft food is permissible.


Bleeding: 
It is normal for the salvia to be streaked with blood for a day. If frequent bleeding is present, fold sterile gauze into a firm wad and place it directly on the bleeding area. Maintain firm pressure by biting for 20 minutes. The gauze may also be substituted by a tea bag. The tannic acid in tea has a clotting effect.

Swelling and Discoloration:
Is to be expected in certain areas, usually reaching its maximum two days after surgery. It will disappear graudally and is no cause for conern. If desired, ice pads may be applied for the first 4-6 hours only, alternating 20 mins on and 20 mins off.

Sutures:
Stitches, if required are removed without discomfort in about 5-7 days. An appointment will be made for you. Do not hesitate to call the office if you have any questions

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