Post-Operative Instructions – Oral Surgery

• First Hour: If bleeding persists, apply new gauze to the surgical site for 30 minutes. Change gauze every 30–45 minutes as needed.
• Exercise Care: Do not disturb the surgical area. Avoid vigorous rinsing or probing. Brush teeth gently. Do not smoke.
• Oozing: Intermittent bleeding overnight is normal. Apply fresh gauze for 30–45 minutes as needed.
• Persistent Bleeding: Use a damp tea bag wrapped in gauze for 20–30 minutes. If bleeding continues, call the office or Dr. Abey’s cell.
• Swelling: Apply a cold pack or ice bag (wrapped in a towel) to the cheek 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off during the first 24 hours. Take prescribed anti-inflammatory medication as directed.
• Pain: Mild to moderate pain is expected for 3–5 days. Take prescribed pain medication. Supplement with acetaminophen (max 3000mg/day) or ibuprofen if necessary. Call the office if pain is uncontrolled or frequent medication is needed.
• Nausea: Common after surgery due to medication. Take medicines with food. Yogurt, kefir, and probiotics are recommended while taking high-dose ibuprofen or antibiotics.
• Diet: Eat nourishing, comfortably consumable foods. Avoid very hot foods and using a straw. Acceptable foods include soups, pudding, yogurt, ice cream, mashed potatoes, and pureed foods. Avoid nuts, seeds, popcorn, etc. Gradually return to solid foods over several days. Do not skip meals.
• Prosthesis Care: If a denture or partial was placed, do not remove it for the first 24 hours. Do not rinse or clean surgical sites during this period. Drs. Abey or Phasuk will handle cleaning at the first post-operative appointment.

• Mouth Rinses: Begin prescription Chlorhexidine oral rinse 24 hours after surgery, twice daily for 7 days. Swish gently or apply with gauze. Follow with frequent warm salt water rinses (1 tsp salt in 8 oz water), at least 2–3 times per day.
• Brushing: Resume normal oral hygiene as tolerated. Be gentle if swelling or soreness is present.
• Hot Applications: Apply warm compresses (hot water bottle, warm towels, heating pad) to affected areas 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off to soothe tenderness and reduce stiffness.

• The first two days are typically the most uncomfortable with noticeable swelling.
• By the third day, discomfort should lessen, swelling will remain, and you can start a more substantial diet.
• Gradual, steady improvement should continue throughout the recovery period.
• Continue taking all regularly prescribed medications. Contact our office if healing does not progress as expected.

Prosthodontics of Central Indiana
11405 N. Pennsylvania St., Suite 110
Carmel, IN 46032

Office: Prosthodontics of Central Indiana Phone Number (317) 574-0866