Cumberland dentist, Dentist in Cumberland, RI

POST- SURGERY INSTRUCTIONS

· Pain - Use the medication prescribed for post-operative discomfort. Contact the office if pain persists. If antibiotics are prescribed follow the instructions and take the full amount.

· Swelling - It is normal for the surgery area to feel slightly swollen or puffy. Contact the office if any large overt swelling occurs.

· Bleeding - Blood may appear in your saliva for a few hours after surgery. If bleeding persists, apply FIRM pressure for 5 minutes, by the clock, directly to the affected area. Use a moistened tissue, gauze or a tea bag. Call the office if bleeding does not stop after 5minutes of continual pressure.

· Eating - There are no major restrictions on the types of foods you may eat (unless otherwise instructed). Do most of the chewing on the opposite side of the mouth. To avoid root sensitivity refrain from food that is extremely hot or cold in temperature. Avoid foods with seeds or hard crusts that may injure or can lodge under the surgical flap. Take smaller bites so large mouthfuls do not dislodge the dressing or sutures.

· Brushing - Brush your teeth gently in the area of the surgery. Try not to irritate the gum tissue. Do not use floss. Use the prescribed mouthwash or Listerine, for 30 seconds morning and night. Clean the non-surgical areas thoroughly. The cleaner the mouth the faster the healing.

· GRAFT PATIENTS - Most post-surgery problems emanate from the palatal donor site. Bleeding may occur even after several uneventful days. If continual bleeding occurs apply FIRM pressure with MOISTENED gauze, tissue, or a tea bag, for at least 5 MINUTES by the clock. Call the office if bleeding continues. If only the palate is painful, apply COLGATE ORABASE (you may have been given a sample) as directed. It can be purchased in any pharmacy.

· Periodontal Dressings - A periodontal dressing may have been placed. It is protective in nature but is not crucial to the success of the surgery. It is not a problem if lost. If it makes you uncomfortable call the office to have it removed or replaced.

CALL THE OFFICE

IF PAIN PERSISTS FOR MORE THAN 24 HOURS, SWELLING OCCURS,

BLEEDING CONTINUES AFTER APPLYING FIRM PRESSURE, OR YOU HAVE ANY UNRESOLVED PROBLEMS OR QUESTIONS

AFTER HOURS

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401 487-8272