Post Op Instructions

Before each in-office service and procedure we perform, we will carefully discuss in depth with you what you can expect during and after treatment.  In addition, we have provided our Post-Op Instructions below to help answer any post-op questions and to educate you on proper after-care.  If you have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to call our practice at 302-793-0100.

• Bite on gauze sponges for 30 minutes after the surgery to encourage the bleeding to clot.  Replace the sponges with new gauze sponges for another 30 minutes if fresh, red blood is present.  If bleeding continues after this time, bite on a tea bag for 30 minutes.  If you are still bledding, please contact the office.
• Do not drink or eat hot foods the same day as your procedure, as you may dissolve or loosen the blood clot.  Eat cool, soft, nutritious foods for the next few days.
• Do not "suck" on the wound site for the next few days.  You may disturb the blood clot, causing bleeding, slow healing, and or bone pain often called a "dry socket."
• Do not eat hard foods for a few days in the part of the mouth where the surgery was accomplished.  You could disturb the healing.
• Do not over exert yourself during the next 24 hours.
• If pain persists after several days, please contact us for instructions.
• If sutures were placed, you need an appointment in 7 days to have the stitches removed.
• You have been given a prescription for pain.  You may elect to manage the discomfort with aspirin or Tylenol before filling the prescription.  If these drugs will not control the pain, please get the prescription filled.
• You have been given a prescription for an antibiotic.  Please take the medication as directed until all the tablets are gone.
• Use cold packs (ice in plastic bags) on the outside of your face near the surgery site for two hours when you arrive home.  Usually alternating 10 minutes on the face and 10 minutes off for an hour is adequate.