+BOARD CERTIFIED IN PERIODONTOLOGY AND DENTAL IMPLANT SURGERY+
+BOARD CERTIFIED IN PERIODONTOLOGY AND DENTAL IMPLANT SURGERY+
MEDICATIONS
Follow the instructions on your “Medication Reference Sheet” in your Black Folder. Take all medications with food.
SWELLING & BRUISING
In some cases, swelling may occur. Apply ice pack to the outside of the face over the area of surgery at 10 minute intervals (10 minutes on / 10 minutes off) as much as possible for the first 48 hours. Swelling usually peaks by the third day. Ice cubes in a plastic bag, or a bag of frozen peas, work well for an ice pack.
BLEEDING
Post-operative seepage is normal for several hours after the surgery and even overnight. Do not be concerned if traces of blood are noted in the saliva up to 3 days after surgery. Do not rinse the mouth vigorously as disruption of the blood clot may occur possibly leading to dry socket. If heavy bleeding continues, use the gauze or a damp tea bag to put firm pressure on the area for 30 minutes. If bleeding does not subside, please call us immediately.
SUTURES
You may have sutures (stitches) around your teeth. These should remain in place until your next appointment. Do not be alarmed if a few stitches come loose before your next appointment. Please avoid touching the surgical area, or pulling your lips away to view it. Any grafted area may change in appearance from day to day presenting with a variety of colors ranging from red/brown to white.
FOR TISSUE GRAFTING PROCEDURES
In some tissue grafting procedures, a healing surgical dressing is applied to the roof of your mouth. This may dislodge within 24-48 hours (which is normal). It may be swallowed. If bleeding occurs, place gauze pressure for 30 minutes. If bleeding does not subside, please call us.
FOR SINUS PROCEDURES
If you had a sinus procedure, please do not sneeze or blow your nose forcefully. If you must cough or sneeze, do so with your mouth open. Keep your head elevated for the first 48 hours. Do not engage in any strenuous activities for two weeks following the procedure.
MOUTH CARE
Do not floss or use an electric toothbrush surrounding your surgical site(s) until instructed to do so after your post-op appointment. Brushing and flossing should be continued in all other areas of the mouth. Gentle salt water rinse (1 teaspoon in 12 oz warm water) is to be performed approximately 3 times/day. Begin day after surgery and continue until post-operative visit. Do not vigorously swish!
NUTRITION
For the first two days following surgery, soft and cold foods only. For the remainder of the two-week healing period prior to your post-operative visit, soft foods only. No chips, nuts, popcorn or other sharp foods that could get lodged in the surgical site. The following foods are recommended: shakes, smoothies, yogurt, pudding, applesauce, fish, pasta, scrambled eggs, ice cream, soup, mashed potatoes, food supplements (protein shakes, Ensure, etc). Do not use a straw for the first two weeks. Cut your food into smaller pieces and chew on the opposite side of the surgical site as much as possible.
SMOKING
Smoking is very detrimental to healing and will negatively affect the results of surgery. DO NOT SMOKE for at least one week after surgery.
PHYSICAL EXERCISE & ACTIVITY
Plan to rest for the remainder of the day following surgery. Avoid heavy lifting and/or exercise (jogging, golfing, tennis, diving, swimming) for 48 hours following surgery. These activities could cause further bleeding/discomfort.
CONTACT US
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call the office during office hours at 941-927-4308. If the office is closed and you have a true dental emergency, Dr. Fiorica may reached at 941-932-0577. Please leave a message and your call will be returned.