Medication: All prescriptions should be filled as soon as possible. You must start taking your medication before the local anesthetic wears off. If antibiotics are prescribed, you must take them in full.
Ice: In order to reduce swelling, it is highly recommended to use ice packs wrapped in a moist towel on cheeks for the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Alternate every 20 minutes on each side. Do not use ice 48 hours after surgery. After 72 hours, uses hot moist compresses the same way to further reduce any swelling.
Bleeding: Light bleeding is normal the day of surgery. If necessary, use a gauze sponge on the wound and keep your mouth closed. Use gauze for 30 to 60 minutes only. Do not fall asleep with gauze in your mouth.
Swelling: Swelling will be at its peak on the 3rd day after surgery and will diminish progressively. Bruising is normal and will disappear with the swelling. If swelling reappears suddenly, please contact us immediately.
Diet: Do not avoid eating. Drink lots of liquids and return to your normal diet as soon as possible. Avoid hard foods until local anesthetic wears off.
Nausea: If you suffer from nausea, you may take 50 mg of Gravol (in tablets or suppositories). When in doubt, do not hesitate to contact us. Sometimes pain killers can trigger nausea and a change in prescription applies.
Stitches: Your stitches will dissolve on their own within a week.
Dentures: Wear your dentures continuously for 2-3 days after surgery. Rinse your mouth without your dentures and put them back in as soon as possible in order to avoid swelling. Dentures may be removed at bedtime on the 4th day; however, be aware that they may be difficult to reinsert in the morning. Be sure to book an appointment with your dentist or denturist in the 3-5 days following your surgery in order to make the necessary adjustments.
Hygiene: Avoid rinsing or spitting the day of surgery. The following day, rinse with salt and water every 2 hours to 4 hours. Once the swelling goes down, rinse every 4-6 hours for the next 7 to 10 days. (Use 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a tall glass of water). If possible, softly brush your teeth the day of surgery.
Intravenous: Sometimes, medication irritates arm veins. If this is the case, keep your arm raised and use hot moist compresses. If this doesn’t rapidly soothe the pain or discomfort, please contact us immediately.
Physical activity: Limit physical activity to a minimum for the recovery period. Avoid intense cardiovascular activities for 5 to 7 days.
Driving: It is recommended NOT to use your vehicle, operate machinery or drink alcohol for the postoperative period.
Smoking: Do not smoke for 24 to 72 hours after surgery.