THE DAY FOLLOWING SURGERY AND THEREAFTER
1. On the morning of the day following surgery, rinse your mouth carefully with a solution made by adding 1/2 teaspoon of salt to a large glass of warm water. Repeat three times a day until remaining soreness subsides. Resume brushing any remaining teeth, but not in the immediate surgical area. We will let you know when to brush the area with a special soft brush. Do not avoid brushing the other areas, as this will cause more inflammation. Please do not use a syringe or Water Pik during the first two weeks unless otherwise instructed. This can dislodge the blood clot.
2. You may experience a slight elevation in temperature for 24 to 48 hours. If high temperatures continue, contact us.
3. DO NOT WORRY ABOUT STITCHES. Stitches (also known as sutures) are usually placed to control bleeding, aid healing, and help prevent food from collecting in the surgical site - - especially for lower teeth. The sutures we use usually dissolve in 3 to 5 days and may not have to be removed.
4. ANY SWELLING, SORENESS, OR STIFFNESS IN THE JAW MUSCLES can be relieved by applying a warm moist towel to the affected side of the face several times a day. Moist heat should be used after the first 24 hours. If swelling, tenderness, or pain should increase after the first few days, call the office.
5. Sometimes a soft diet may be necessary for the first few days following surgery. Most patients are able to resume regular food intake within a short time.
6. Bruising marks may appear on the skin of the face during the first few days after surgery. Moist heat application will help relieve this condition once gain. You may also experience dryness around the corners of your mouth if they are stretched out. Keep them moist with lip ointment.
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