PLEASE FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS BELOW AFTER ORAL SURGERY:

Proper care of the mouth following most dental procedures can reduce complications and speeds the healing of the surgical area. Please follow the instructions provided to insure proper healing and to minimize complications:

1. Protection of the blood clot: Maintain gentle pressure by biting on the gauze sponge that has been placed over the surgical area, or by biting on a tea bag which has been gently moistened and wrapped in a piece of gauze. Keep steady firm pressure for 45 minutes. Repeat as often as necessary. Avoid smoking, sucking through a straw, and spitting.

2. Rinsing: After the bleeding stops, you can rinse with warm salt water (� teaspoon of table salt in 8 oz. of warm water) every 2-4 hours and after meals. The use of commercial mouth washes during the healing period is not encouraged.

3. Discomfort: Following dental surgery, it is normal to experience some discomfort. If medication has been prescribed, take as instructed. If the discomfort is very severe or lasts for more than 2 or 3 days, please call your doctor.

4. Use of the toothbrush: The toothbrush should be used carefully in areas of the mouth not involved by the surgical procedures. A clean mouth heals faster.

5. Eating: Adequate food and fluid intake following surgery is most important. Try to chew on the opposite side of the surgery, and rinse after meals. If you find that eating your regular diet is too difficult, you may supplement your diet with liquids such as Carnation Instant Breakfast (CIB/any flavor).

6. Avoid: All excessive physical activity. Do not pick at the surgical site. Don't consume liquids through a straw. Avoid all alcoholic beverages and refrain from smoking until healing is well established.

7. Sutures: If sutures were used, do not fail to return for their removal on the appointment given.

8. Control of swelling: Gently apply ice packs to area for periods of 20 minutes on and 10 minutes off for the first 24 hours after surgery. Use of ice after the first 24 hours after surgery is not effective, and is contraindicated.

9. Allergic reactions: For generalized rash, itching, etc., stop taking the medications and call your doctor immediately.

10. Do not hesitate to call the office should any questions arise.