Post-Op Instructions

Wound Care: To ensure proper healing, do not disturb the surgical site on the day of your procedure. Avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the area to prevent disruption of the healing process. If bone grafting was performed, be especially careful not to disturb the site. Refrain from using your tongue to probe or manipulate the area. It is normal sometimes to feel small particles from the bone graft.

Bleeding: Mild bleeding or slight redness in the saliva is common within the first 24 hours after surgery. If excessive bleeding occurs, when your mouth fills with blood rapidly, place a gauze pad directly over the wound and apply firm pressure by biting down for 30 minutes. Replace the gauze as needed. If bleeding persists despite these measures, contact our office for further instructions. Once the bleeding has subsided, gauze is no longer necessary.

Swelling is a normal part of the healing process and typically peaks 2–3 days after surgery before gradually subsiding over the following 3–5 days. To minimize swelling, apply an ice pack or a cold compress to the affected cheek area as frequently as possible for the first 24–36 hours. If swelling increases beyond the third post-operative day, contact our office immediately.

Diet: Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, but avoid hot beverages or foods for the first 24 hours. Stick to a soft food and liquid diet on the day of surgery. For at least two weeks following the procedure, keep solid foods away from the surgical site to prevent disruption and potential loss of graft material.

Pain Management: Begin taking pain medication before the local anesthetic wears off. For moderate discomfort, take one or two Regular Strength Tylenol® (325 mg) every six hours, ensuring you do not exceed 2600 mg within a 24-hour period. Alternatively, you may take over-the-counter Ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®) in 200 mg doses, with 3–4 tablets every 4–6 hours as needed (maximum of 3200 mg per day). If a prescription pain medication was provided, follow the instructions carefully and do not take additional Tylenol® if your prescribed medication contains acetaminophen (APAP). If you have allergies or a medical condition that restricts your ability to take these medications, consult your doctor before use.

Antibiotics: Take any prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed to prevent infection and promote proper healing.

Oral Hygiene: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial for proper healing. Starting the day after surgery, rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater solution (1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water) at least 4–5 times per day, particularly after meals. If prescribed Peridex™ Oral Rinse, use it twice daily by swishing for 30 seconds and spitting it out. Brush your teeth gently, avoiding direct contact with the surgical site. Flossing may be resumed immediately if comfortable, but avoid flossing areas with sutures.

If sutures were placed, they are typically dissolvable and will fall out naturally within the first week. If non-dissolvable sutures were used, you will be scheduled for a follow-up appointment for removal.

Activity Restrictions: Limit physical activity immediately after surgery. Strenuous exercise can cause increased bleeding and discomfort. If you experience throbbing or continued bleeding during activity, stop exercising and allow your body time to heal. Keep in mind that post-surgical dietary restrictions may also temporarily reduce your energy levels.

Use of Prosthetic Devices If you wear a partial denture, flipper, or full denture, avoid using it immediately after surgery. You may resume wearing it once it is comfortable, provided it does not apply pressure to the grafted site. If you are uncertain whether your prosthesis is safe to use, consult our office for guidance.

Following these instructions will help ensure a smooth recovery. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our office for further assistance.

Bleeding: Immediately following surgery, maintain pressure on the surgical area by biting down on the provided gauze pad or roll until the bleeding stops. A certain amount of bleeding is to be expected. Replace the gauze as necessary until the bleeding stops.

Supervision of Children: Children should be supervised after having an extraction to ensure they do not bite or chew their tongue or lips, as this can cause serious injury to the soft tissue.

Medications: Please fill any prescriptions you have been given and take them as directed. If prescribed pain medication (not aspirin, Tylenol, or ibuprofen), do not drive, operate heavy equipment, or perform tasks requiring alertness.

Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection. Take the medication as directed until it is finished unless otherwise instructed by our office.

Swelling: Swelling around the face, eyes, and surgical site is common and may increase over the first two to three days. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off). After 36 hours, switch to moist heat to aid recovery. Do not place ice directly on the skin.

Dietary Restrictions: For 24 hours after surgery, avoid straws, brushing, rinsing, spitting, or smoking. Also avoid hot, spicy, carbonated, and alcoholic beverages. Stick to liquids and soft foods like soups, yogurt, and smoothies.

Activity: Rest on the day of surgery. Avoid strenuous activity. Normal activities can resume the next day as tolerated.

Oral Rinsing: After the first day, gently rinse with warm salt water (½ teaspoon salt in 8 oz of water) three times a day to promote healing.

Sutures: If sutures were placed, they may dissolve on their own within 7–10 days. If a follow-up visit is needed for removal, we will inform you at the time of placement.

When to Call: Please contact our office if you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, swelling, or have any questions. For emergencies, call our office. If it is a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room.

Oral Surgery Davis is conveniently located in Davis, CA, and serves all of Woodland, Winters, Sacramento, West Sacramento, Fairfield, Vacaville, and Dixon, California

Avoid Nasal Pressure: Refrain from blowing your nose for up to four weeks following surgery. Do not hold your nose when sneezing. Avoid activities that increase nasal or oral pressure, such as flying, scuba diving, heavy lifting, blowing up balloons, or playing wind instruments.

Medications: Take all prescribed medications as directed, including decongestants if recommended. These help reduce sinus pressure and promote healing.

Oral Hygiene: Keep your mouth clean to reduce the risk of infection. Begin salt water rinses (½ teaspoon of salt in 8 oz of water) the evening of surgery or the next day, after meals, or 4–5 times daily.

Brushing: Brush your teeth gently with a soft manual toothbrush starting the evening of your surgery or the day after. Continue brushing at least twice daily.

Diet: Drink plenty of fluids. Stick to soft foods for the first few days and gradually return to a normal diet as comfort allows. Avoid chewing or placing pressure on the bone graft site. Do not consume alcohol or smoke for 1–2 weeks after surgery.

Removable Appliances: All removable appliances, such as partial dentures, flippers, or full dentures, must be checked for proper fit before use after surgery.

Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are normal. To minimize swelling, apply a cold compress to the face near the surgical site. Do not apply ice directly to your skin—use a cloth barrier. Apply the compress for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off as needed.

Sinus or Nasal Congestion: If you experience persistent or severe sinus or nasal congestion, please contact our office for further guidance.

General Care Proper post-operative care is essential for healing after sinus-related oral surgery. Some swelling, discomfort, and temporary jaw stiffness are normal. Following these instructions will help minimize complications and promote a smooth recovery.

Sinus Considerations The sinus cavity is located above the upper back teeth and is connected to the nasal passage. If your surgery involved this area, it is crucial to follow these special precautions for the next 3–4 weeks to avoid disrupting the healing process:

• Do not blow your nose. If necessary, gently wipe nasal secretions.
• Avoid using straws. The suction can disturb the healing site.
• Do not smoke, as it can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications.
• Try to avoid sneezing. If you must sneeze, do so with your mouth open to reduce pressure on the surgical site.
• Refrain from activities that cause pressure changes, such as swimming, scuba diving, playing wind instruments, or inflating balloons.
• If congestion occurs, use an over-the-counter decongestant like Sudafed® or Claritin-D® as needed.

Oral Hygiene & Site Care

• Begin gentle rinsing with a warm saltwater solution (½ teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water) the day after surgery. Avoid aggressive rinsing or spitting.
• Avoid brushing directly over the surgical site for the first two weeks. Keep the area clean but do not disturb it with fingers, toothpicks, or a Waterpik®.

Activity Restrictions

• Keep your head elevated, including while sleeping, to reduce swelling.
• Avoid bending over or lifting heavy objects to prevent pressure buildup in the sinus region.
• Chew on the opposite side of your mouth and eat soft foods that do not require excessive chewing.

Medications

• Take all prescribed medications, including antibiotics, exactly as directed.
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®), as recommended for discomfort.

Expected Healing Responses

• It is not uncommon to notice a few drops of blood from the nose. This is normal and should subside on its own.
• Some facial swelling and bruising may develop, peaking around 2–3 days post-surgery.
• A mild sore throat may occur due to swelling in the area but should resolve within a few days.
• If an increase in swelling, persistent discomfort, or unusual symptoms occur, contact our office promptly.

Please return for your scheduled post-operative appointment. If you have any concerns or questions, do not hesitate to contact our office for assistance.

Wound Care: To support proper healing, do not disturb the surgical site or any packing material placed in your mouth. This packing is intended to keep the tooth exposed, and while it may shift or fall out, this is generally not a cause for concern. If your surgeon has attached a gold chain to the impacted tooth, it is crucial that your orthodontist activate the chain within the first one to two weeks after surgery. If the chain becomes dislodged, contact our office promptly for an evaluation and possible replacement.

Bleeding: Minor bleeding or pink saliva is normal for up to 24 hours post-surgery. If you experience excessive bleeding—where your mouth rapidly fills with blood—apply firm pressure by biting down on a gauze pad placed over the surgical site for 30 minutes. Replace gauze as needed. If heavy bleeding persists despite these measures, contact our office immediately.

Swelling: Swelling is a natural response to surgery and may contribute to post-operative discomfort. To minimize swelling, apply an ice pack to the affected side of your face for 10 minutes, then switch to the opposite side for another 10 minutes. Continue icing as frequently as possible for the first 36 hours, ensuring you do not apply ice directly to the skin for extended periods to prevent irritation. Swelling generally peaks within 2–3 days and gradually subsides over the following 3–5 days. If swelling worsens after the third day, please reach out to our office.

Diet: Stay hydrated by drinking ample fluids, beginning with clear liquids such as apple juice, tea, or broth. Avoid hot foods and beverages for the first 24 hours. On the day of surgery, stick to a soft food diet, including soups, eggs, and mashed potatoes. Gradually return to a regular diet as tolerated, unless otherwise instructed.

Pain Management: Pain after surgery is normal and can be managed with medication. If you are not allergic or intolerant to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), begin taking ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®) or Tylenol® as soon as the local anesthetic starts to wear off. If ibuprofen alone does not adequately control your pain, take your prescribed narcotic as directed. These medications may be taken together, but always take them with food to reduce the risk of nausea. Keep in mind that narcotic pain relievers can impair judgment and reflexes.

Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene is critical for proper healing. Begin brushing your teeth the day after surgery, ensuring you clean all teeth gently, even if they are sensitive. Bacterial plaque and food debris near the surgical site can delay healing. Start warm saltwater rinses (½ teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water) the day after surgery and continue at least six times daily. If prescribed Peridex™ Oral Rinse, use it as directed.

If sutures (stitches) were placed, they are typically dissolvable and will fall out naturally within a week. If your sutures require removal, you will be scheduled for a follow-up visit.

Activity Restrictions: Restrict physical activity immediately following surgery. Strenuous exercise may cause increased bleeding and discomfort. If you experience throbbing or continued bleeding while engaging in an activity, stop immediately and allow your body time to heal. Keep in mind that post-operative dietary restrictions may temporarily impact your energy levels.

Use of Prosthetic Devices: If you use a partial denture, flipper, or full denture, do not wear it immediately following surgery. You may resume wearing your prosthesis once it feels comfortable, ensuring that it does not exert pressure on the surgical site. If you are unsure whether your prosthetic is safe to use, contact our office for guidance.

Following these guidelines will promote a smooth recovery. If you have any concerns or require further assistance, please contact our office.

Normal Symptoms: Some pain, bleeding, swelling, and minor seeping are normal after oral surgery. Please avoid pulling on your lip to view the site, and do not probe the area with your tongue or fingers.

Medication for Pain: To manage discomfort, you may take ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed on the label or by our office.

Swelling Management: Swelling around the face and surgical site is common and may peak 2–3 days after surgery. Apply a cold compress to the area for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. Use a cloth barrier to avoid direct contact with the skin. After 36 hours, switch to moist heat to reduce any lingering swelling.

Salt Water Rinses: After the first day, gently rinse with warm salt water (½ teaspoon salt in 8 oz of water) three times a day to aid healing.

Brushing and Oral Hygiene: Avoid brushing near the surgical site, but continue brushing and flossing the rest of your mouth as instructed by our office.

First 24 Hours Restrictions: Do not use a straw, rinse, spit, smoke, or brush the surgical area. Avoid hot, spicy, carbonated, or alcoholic beverages.

Activity Restrictions: Rest on the day of your surgery. As tolerated, resume normal activities the next day, avoiding strenuous work or play.

Diet Recommendations: For the first few days, avoid disturbing the surgical site by eating liquids and soft foods like soups, yogurt, juice, and smoothies.

Denture Use: If you wear a denture that overlaps the implant site, limit its use during the initial healing phase. After the first week, you may gradually wear it for longer periods.

Medication & Infection Prevention: Take all prescribed medications as directed, including antibiotics to prevent infection.

Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up visits so we can monitor your healing and ensure proper recovery.

When to Call: If you experience increasing pain or swelling after several days, or excessive bleeding or discomfort after 48–72 hours, please call our office at 530-297-7000 immediately.

Bleeding: A small amount of bleeding is normal following multiple tooth extractions. If bleeding occurs, place a gauze pad over the affected area and bite down with firm pressure for 30 minutes. If heavy bleeding persists, contact our office immediately. If you have an immediate denture, do not remove it unless bleeding is excessive, as some oozing around the denture is expected.

Swelling: Swelling is a natural response to surgery and may cause temporary discomfort. To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas to the sides of your face where the extractions were performed. Keep the ice pack in place for 20 minutes, then remove it for 20 minutes, repeating this process as needed for the first 24 hours. Ice should not be applied directly to the skin. After 36 hours, switch to warm compresses to help minimize discoloration and promote healing.

Pain Management Mild discomfort can be managed with ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®), taking two to three 200 mg tablets every 3–4 hours. If your pain is more severe, use the prescribed medication as directed. If pain does not begin to subside after two days or worsens, please contact our office. If antibiotics are prescribed, complete the full course, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication.

Diet: Staying hydrated is crucial for recovery. If multiple teeth were extracted, replacing lost fluids is especially important. Drink at least six glasses of liquid on the first day. Avoid hot foods and beverages for the first 24 hours. Stick to soft foods such as soups, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs, gradually reintroducing a regular diet as tolerated.

Oral Hygiene: Do not rinse your mouth or use mouthwash for the first 24 hours after surgery. After the first day, rinse gently with a warm saltwater solution (½ teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water) every 2–4 hours, especially after meals, to keep the surgical site clean. If you have an immediate denture, continue rinsing as instructed after any necessary adjustments.

Expected Post-Surgical Effects

• Swelling may peak within 2–3 days and should gradually subside over 3–5 days. Bruising or discoloration near the extraction sites or eyes may occur; warm compresses can help minimize this.
• A mild sore throat may develop due to swelling near the throat muscles, but it should resolve within a few days.
• The corners of the mouth may become dry or cracked due to stretching; applying Vaseline® or lip balm will help prevent discomfort.
• A slight fever may occur for the first 24–48 hours. If a fever persists beyond this timeframe, contact our office.

Denture Care: If immediate dentures have been placed, sore spots may develop. Your dentist will typically schedule a follow-up appointment within 24–48 hours to make necessary adjustments. If discomfort from the denture persists, do not delay contacting your dentist, as prolonged irritation can slow the healing process.

Sutures: If stitches were placed, they are usually self-dissolving and will fall out within a week. If you were informed that your sutures require removal, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled.

Following these instructions will aid in a smooth and comfortable recovery. If you have any concerns or experience unusual symptoms, please contact our office for further guidance.

Bleeding Control: Immediately after surgery, bite down on the provided gauze pad or roll to apply pressure to the surgical area. Bleeding is normal and may continue for a short time. Replace the gauze as needed until bleeding stops.

Dizziness: After surgery, you may feel dizzy when sitting or standing. Sit up slowly and pause before standing to avoid lightheadedness.

Physical Activity: Avoid vigorous activities for 3–4 days after surgery. You may return to your routine as tolerated.

Medications: Take all prescribed medications as directed. If you are taking strong pain medications (not aspirin, Tylenol, or ibuprofen), do not drive or operate machinery as they may impair your reflexes and judgment.

Antibiotics: If prescribed antibiotics, take them exactly as instructed to prevent infection.

Swelling and Stiffness: Swelling around the face, eyes, and surgical site is common, especially 2–3 days after surgery. Use a cold compress for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off with a cloth barrier between the ice and your skin. After 36 hours, switch to moist heat if needed to reduce swelling.

Avoid Certain Actions: For the first 24–48 hours, do not suck on straws, drink from bottles, rinse, spit, or smoke. Avoid hot, spicy, carbonated, and alcoholic beverages.

Diet: Eat soft foods such as soups, yogurt, juice, and smoothies during the first few days. Avoid hard or crunchy foods that could disturb the site.

Oral Hygiene: Do not rinse, spit, or brush on the day of surgery. Resume brushing the day after, avoiding the surgical site. After brushing, gently rinse with warm salt water (½ tsp salt in 8 oz warm water) three times a day for 7–10 days to keep the site clean and help dissolve sutures.

Irrigation: Do not use the irrigating syringe for the first 5 days. After that, use it with warm salt water to flush the socket and remove food particles or debris.

Numbness: Temporary numbness of the lip, chin, or tongue is normal. Avoid biting your cheek, lip, or tongue until sensation returns.

Dry Socket: A dry socket can occur if the blood clot is dislodged. Symptoms include throbbing pain in the surgical site, jaw, ear, or adjacent teeth starting 3–4 days post-surgery. If pain doesn’t respond to medication, contact us.

When to Call: If you experience severe pain, prolonged bleeding, swelling, or have any concerns, please call our office at 530-297-7000. If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room.

To ensure a successful oral surgery experience and a smooth recovery, please adhere to the following pre-operative guidelines:

• Fasting Requirements: You must refrain from consuming any food or beverages for at least 8 hours before your scheduled surgery time.
• Medication Protocol: Continue taking your routine medications as directed unless advised otherwise by your physician or surgeon. If a medication is required during the fasting period, ingest it with minimal water. Do not discontinue any regular medication without explicit instructions from your healthcare provider.
• Attire Recommendations: On the day of surgery, wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing with sleeves that can be easily rolled above the elbow. Opt for low-heeled footwear to ensure stability.
• Personal Adornments: Please avoid applying lipstick, heavy makeup, or nail polish. Ensure that contact lenses, jewelry, and dentures are removed before the procedure begins.
• Restroom Use: It is advisable to use the restroom approximately 30 minutes before your appointment to enhance comfort during the procedure.
• Transportation and Supervision: A responsible adult must accompany you to our office, remain on-site throughout the procedure, and drive you home afterward.
• Post-Procedure Rest: Plan to rest for the remainder of the day following surgery. Avoid driving or operating machinery for at least 24 hours after receiving IV anesthesia.
• Substance Avoidance: Abstain from consuming alcohol or using recreational drugs for 72 hours before and on the day of your surgery, as these substances can adversely affect anesthesia.
• Health Status Notification: If you experience any illness, such as a cold, sore throat, or gastrointestinal upset, please inform our office prior to your appointment.
• Considerations for Female Patients: Be aware that certain antibiotics can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. Consult with your pharmacist for detailed information. If you are pregnant, IV anesthesia is contraindicated. If you suspect or are planning a pregnancy, please undergo a pregnancy test before the surgery.

Adhering to these instructions, along with our post-operative care guidelines, will promote a smooth procedure and facilitate a comfortable recovery.

Should you have any questions or require further assistance, do not hesitate to contact our office. We are here to support you and ensure you are well-prepared for your surgery.