POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS FOR TISSUE GRAFTING
CARE OF THE MOUTH
Brushing and Flossing: Begin brushing and flossing the areas not operated on the day following surgery. AVOID THE SURGICAL SITES until given specific brushing instructions at your postoperative visit. You may notice a white film over the surgical sites. This is completely normal.
Mouthwash: Use the prescribed mouthwash twice daily beginning the morning after surgery until instructed to discontinue. RINSE GENTLY!
Saline Rinses: Rinse GENTLY with a mild saline solution after rinsing with the medicated mouthwash. This will minimize discoloration of your teeth. You may rinse 2 or 3 additional times during the day.
Gel: Apply prescribed gel to surgical areas if directed by Dr. Rimer.
Electric Toothbrushes: DO NOT use an electric toothbrush such as Sonicare, Oral-B or Ultreo for 6 weeks following surgery. Unless advised differently by Dr. Rimer.
Water Pik: DO NOT use a Water Pik for at least 6 weeks following surgery.
EATING
First 24 Hours: Adequate nutrition is essential for normal healing. Following surgery, your diet should be restricted to COOL LIQUIDS, BUT NO MILK BASED PRODUCTS. Apple juice, Gatorade and similar products are good choices. AVOID PEROXIDE, ALCOHOL, CARBONATED BEVERAGES AND DRINKING THROUGH A STRAW.
After 24 Hours: Gradually progress to soft foods such as cooked vegetables, baked fish, tuna, pasta and meatloaf which are easily chewed and swallowed. DO NOT SKIP MEALS. If you take nourishment regularly, you will feel better, gain strength, have less discomfort and heal faster.
ACTIVITIES
Rest: Plan to rest at home the remainder of the day of surgery and the following day. You may read, watch TV or work at your desk at home. When sleeping, elevate your head if more comfortable. It may help to decrease swelling.
After 24 Hours: You may return to normal daily routine, but for 1 week following surgery avoid strenuous activities such as heavy lifting or exercise programs which elevate your heart rate.
MEDICATIONS
Medications: If you are taking any special medications, Dr. Rimer will have advised you as to the protocol for taking these, following this type of surgery. Pain Medications: Take pain medication after treatment with fruit juice or a full glass of water. We suggest you do not take pain medication on an empty stomach. Sit up for 20 minutes after taking pain medication. This will decrease chances of an upset stomach. This medication may be repeated 4 to 6 hours as needed for discomfort. (or as specially prescribed for you – Do not exceed the recommended dosage). DO NOT USE ASPIRIN or products containing aspirin for 1 week following surgery. Aspirin, Advil and Aleve can contribute to bleeding problems and healing. Only the non-aspirin pain reliever, Tylenol is acceptable.
Antibiotics: Take prescribed antibiotics as directed until all have been taken. You will begin this medication the day prior to surgery.
SWELLING
Ice Packs: Some swelling occurs after grafting surgery. To minimize this, you will be advised to use ice packs. Place the ice pack on the outside of your face, over the treated area for 20 minutes and then take it off for 20 minutes. Continue to apply ice packs as much as possible the first 24 to 36 hours after surgery.
BLEEDING
Slight bleeding or oozing is normal during the first 1 or 2 days following surgery. If excessive bleeding occurs, please call our office.
SMOKING
NOT ALLOWED.
SUTURES
Resorbable: The resorbable sutures will usually dissolve by the time you return for your postoperative visit.
Non-Resorbable: If non-resorbable sutures were placed, some will be removed at your postoperative visit, others after a few weeks. You will be advised.
It is our sincere desire that you are as comfortable as possible following surgery. If you should have any questions or problems, please call our office anytime at (561) 368-3170.