Care Following Oral Surgery

After dental or oral surgery follow these simple instructions.

1. Leave the gauze in place for at least 30 minutes, then remove. If abnormal bleeding occurs, fold a sterile gauze, place over socket and bite down on it for 30 minutes. Keep head elevated. (Slight oozing is normal for up to 24 hours.)

2. Nothing to eat or drink while you are numb.

3. Take Tylenol or Advil for discomfort, 2 tablets every 4 hours, if necessary. If severe pain is anticipated, you will be given a prescription for pain medication. Take all medications as prescribed, especially antibiotics.

4. With difficult extractions expect to have swelling and often discoloration, which will reach its peak in 48 hours. Place an ice bag or cold towel on the operated area for 24 hours. Apply the ice 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off. The earlier it is started, the more effective it will be.

5. Do not suck on the socket or touch it with fingers or tongue.

6. Do not rinse your mouth today. Rinsing may dislodge the blood clot and interrupt the normal process of the healing. Tomorrow start with warm salt-water rinses three times a day.

7. Coat your lips with Vaseline for a few days after surgery.

8. Drink only liquids and eat soft foods the first 24 – 48 hours after surgery, but avoid drinking carbonated beverages for 24 hours.

9. Wait one-half hour; if your stomach is not upset eat light, soft foods such as jello, or eggs. Have something cool to drink, such as water, ice tea or juice.

10. Brush your teeth gently except in the region of operation.

11. If you have any problems, please feel free to call us.

12. If you need to contact Dr. Miller when the office is closed, you can call the answering service at 631-689-4504.