Instructions to Patients Following Oral Surgery

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1. Bite on gauze for 30min.

2. Keep fingers and tongue away from the operated area.

3. Do not rinse your mouth for 24 hours; drinking cool or lukewarm liquids is permissible

4. Do not smoke for a minimum of 24 hours.

5. Starting the day following surgery, rinse frequently (about 5 times daily)with a solution of ½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.  Continue rinsing for a few days.

6. If you have discomfort, take what you would normally take for headache every few hours.  If necessary, the doctor will prescribe stronger medication for you.

7. Diet – cold or lukewarm liquids for the first few hours following surgery, after this any soft food is permissible. Avoid small nuts and seeds (flax, strawberry, raspberry, etc.)

8. Bleeding – It is normal for the saliva to be streaked with blood for a day. If frank bleeding is present, fold sterile gauze into a firm wad and place it directly on the bleeding area.  Maintain firm pressure by biting for 20min.  You may also use a moist black tea bag. The tannic acid in tea has a clotting effect

9. Swelling and discolouration – to be expected in certain areas, usually reaching maximum two days following surgery.  It will disappear gradually and is no cause for concern. If desired, cold compresses may be applied for the first 4-6 hours only, 20minutes on/20minutes off.

10. Sutures (stiches) – if sutures were placed they will slowly dissolve over the next 5 days.  Any remaining sutures will be removed at a post-operative appointment that we will have made for you.

11. Do not hesitate to call the office if concerns arise.