MEDICATIONS & DISCOMFORT: 

Pain following periodontal surgery is usually minimal. If Motrin has been prescribed for the pain, take one tablet every 4-6 hours as needed for pain. Note: Medication can cause drowsiness and/or nausea-DO NOT drive. 

   

TISSUE GRAFT: 

Please do not disturb it by pulling out your lip to look in your mouth. The tissue graft can be dislodged from the tooth by excess movement or your lips. Please avoid contact sports for the next week, or physical exertion during the next 3 days. 

   

ACTIVITIES: 

You can generally resume normal activities the day following surgery. It is recommended that you limit your activities and return home to rest the day of your surgery. 

   

APPLICATION OF COLD COMPRESS: 

During the first 25 hours, the application of ice can help control swelling. Apply an ice pack to your face for 10-15 minutes intervals through out the evening. ( You may experience facial swelling during the first several days following surgery-do not be alarmed.) 

   

SURGICAL DRESSING: 

A surgical dressing may have been placed over your gums. Do not worry if the dressing falls off before your next appointment. This should not affect the healing process. 

   

NUTRITION: 

A healthy diet is necessary to heal. A semi-soft diet, high in protein is recommended. Avoid hot and spicy or hard and crunchy foods since they may injure the healing tissue. Food suggestions: scrambled eggs, yogurt, bananas, instant breakfast drinks, applied sauce, cottage cheese, oatmeal, cream of wheat, etc..(Very cold drinks may cause discomfort to your teeth-eat cautiously) 

   

BRUSHING AND FLOSSING: An antiseptic mouth rinse such as Peridex/Periogard may be recommended to help control bacterial plaque. Use the rinse as directed. Do not brush or floss the site which was surgically treated. Brush all other teeth except surgically treated teeth.) 

   

SMOKING: 

Smoking will delay your healing. If you smoke, please cut back to an absolute minimum. 

   

BLEEDING: 

For several hours after surgery, a small amount of blood may appear in your saliva. If bleeding persists, try to locate were the bleeding is coming from. Apply firm but gentle pressure directly to the site of bleeding with gauze or moistened tea bag for 5-10 minutes. If bleeding continues, please call the office. 

   

POST SURGICAL PROBLEMS: 

If you experience swelling that increases after 3 days, fever, discomfort that is not controlled by prescribed medication, an adverse reaction to any medication, or if you are uncertain about your progress is healing, please call the office.