Post-operative instructions
1209 West 5th Street, Suite 100 Austin. TX 78703 P: (512) 391-0011 F: (512) 391-0031
- Bleeding
Important
Some bleeding is expected and is a normal part of healing. You may notice bleeding and/or redness in your saliva for 24–48 hours after surgery.
Gauze instructions
Moisten gauze with cold water and hold firm pressure for 20–30 minutes. Repeat as needed — this may take several attempts to control bleeding.
A small amount of bleeding can continue intermittently for a few days, especially when the area is stimulated by movement. Any physical activity raises your heart rate and increases bleeding, so minimize exercise for a few days.
Stitches placed inside your mouth will dissolve on their own. If non-dissolving sutures were placed, we will remove them at your post-op visit.
- Swelling
Important
Swelling is a normal part of post-operative healing. It can increase for 2–3 days following surgery, then slowly resolves.
First 24 hours
Ice pack on the area — 20 minutes on, then a break
After 24 hours
Switch to warm moist heat to help resolve swelling
- Medication
Important
Swelling is a normal part of post-operative healing. It can increase for 2–3 days following surgery, then slowly resolves.
If you were sedated
You may not drive for 24 hours following sedation. You also cannot drive while taking any narcotic pain medication.
Ibuprofen
For mild to moderate pain — 3 tablets (200 mg each) every 6 hours as needed. Available over the counter as Advil® or Motrin®.
Prescribed pain medication
For severe pain — take as directed, always with food to prevent nausea.
Peridex™ rinse
Antibacterial mouth rinse to keep the area clean. Do not use until the morning after your procedure to avoid stimulating further bleeding.
Antibiotic
If prescribed, take as directed and complete the full course to prevent infection.
Nausea
You may not drive for 24 hours following sedation. You also cannot drive while taking any narcotic pain medication.
- Diet
Important
Hydration and nutrition are essential for healing. You may be more comfortable with a soft diet initially, but you can generally eat what you like — you are limited only by your own comfort.
While still numb
Stick to cold and/or soft foods and liquids until the local anesthetic wears off. Always eat before taking any pain medication to avoid nausea.
Return to a normal diet as soon as you are comfortable, unless otherwise directed by Dr. Eggleston.
- Oral Hygiene
Important
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You may brush and floss your teeth — be gentle around the surgical site. No vigorous swishing or spitting.
First post-operative day — no rinsing
Do not rinse your mouth while there is bleeding. Wait until the following morning.
From day 2 onward
Use warm water rinses or the prescribed Peridex™ mouth rinse after meals to flush out food particles and debris from the surgical area. Continue brushing and flossing with a soft-bristle brush
- Activity
Important
Keep physical activity to a minimum immediately following surgery. Exercise raises your blood pressure and heart rate, which can increase bleeding and throbbing at the surgical site.
Limit vigorous exercise for 24 hours
If you experience throbbing or bleeding during activity, stop immediately and rest. Keep in mind that reduced nutrition intake after surgery may also limit your stamina.
After-hours emergencies — Dr. Eggleston
(512) 391-0011 ext. 103
Available after hours for urgent concerns