Postop for gum grafting

Potomac Periodontics and Implant Aesthetic Center

POST-SURGICAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR SOFT TISSUE GRAFTING

Proper care of your mouth following periodontal surgery is very important for the healing process. Each person responds differently and the post-operative discomfort, swelling, and bleeding may vary from procedure to procedure. Please follow these instructions carefully to speed healing and make you more comfortable.

DISCOMFORT AND MEDICATIONS

• Please take medications as directed. Variation from the prescribed regimen can affect healing and success of the surgical procedure.
• The majority of the discomfort is typically within the first 24-72 hours following surgery.
• Pain medication has been prescribed and is best started before the numbness wears off. If taking a narcotic, it is recommended to take it with food, avoid alcohol, and do not drive.
• Antibiotics are to be taken until gone unless otherwise directed. It is recommended to take probiotics to decrease gastrointestinal problems. Florastor and Garden of Life Primal Defense Ultra Probiotics are both very effective brands.
• Call if you experience a rash, itchiness, severe dizziness, difficulty breathing, fever, or diarrhea.

SWELLING

• Slight swelling and/or bruising of the surgical area is not unusual and may occur after surgery.
• Gently apply an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth towel to the outside of your face to minimize the swelling for the first 8-12 hours after surgery\ (20 minutes on and then off).
• Keep your head elevated above the level of your heart during the first 24 hours. This may necessitate the use of several pillows while sleeping.
• If swelling does occur, it should start to disappear in 3-4 days. If needed after the second day, apply moist heat to the area.

BLEEDING

• Bleeding/oozing may occur for the first 24-48 hours after surgery. If excessive bleeding occurs, apply a moist gauze or tea bag with firm, direct pressure to the surgical site (the tannic acid in the tea will aid in clotting).
• AVOID any positive or negative pressure which may dislodge your clot (such as forceful spitting, rinsing, drinking through a straw, or blowing your nose forcefully).

SUTURES

• Sutures (stitches) may have been placed to hold the gums in the proper position for the ideal healing. Some sutures will dissolve on their own. Others will usually be removed 1-2 weeks after surgery depending on your procedure. Some may be left longer, depending on procedure.
• DO NOT disturb the sutures with your tongue, toothbrush, or in any other manner since displacement may impair healing.

APPEARANCE OF THE GRAFT

• For your comfort and to protect the surgical area, do not chew until the numbness has subsided. Avoid chewing in the area of the surgery until after sutures are removed. A soft diet is recommended until otherwise directed.
• Remember to drink plenty of liquids and maintain a diet with a normal caloric level. Soft foods high in protein, minerals and vitamins (such as soup, eggs, yogurt, cottage cheese, fish, bananas, applesauce, protein shakes, etc.) help support post-surgical healing.
• When in doubt, blend your food and eat with a spoon. No straws!
• AVOID hard, fibrous, or sharp foods as they may delay the healing (especially seeds, chips, nuts, and popcorn).
• AVOID anything too hot for 48 hours after surgery; cool to lukewarm food and liquids are recommended.
ALCOHOL
• All intake of alcohol should be AVOIDED while on prescribed antibiotics or pain medications.

ORAL HYGIENE

• Continue to brush and floss the teeth which were NOT involved in the surgery.
• The surgical site should NOT be disturbed for the first 2 weeks of healing except as directed by your doctor.
• The Peridex mouth rinse (chlorhexidine), if prescribed, may be started the day AFTER surgery so as not to disturb the blood clot the first day. Do not use other mouthwashes.
• You will be instructed when to resume brushing and will be given a special toothbrush to use at one of your post operative appointments.

REST

• Avoid strenuous physical activity, heavy lifting and bending over during your immediate recovery period, usually 2-3 days. This will help to reduce pain, swelling, and help prevent additional bleeding.
• Rest with your head elevated the remainder of the day and sleep with an extra pillow for several nights.

SMOKING

• All smoking should be STOPPED until your sutures have been removed to ensure the best healing and success of your surgical procedure.
• Smoking delays the healing process, increases discomfort, and may encourage bleeding and infection.
• Surgical success rates are decreased in smokers.

DENTURES

• Your dentist will decide when dentures or partial dentures may be worn after the surgery. They must be worn with caution, as pressure can negatively affect the surgical site.

If you have any questions or concerns please contact the office during business hours. In case of any excessive bleeding, swelling, persistent or severe pain, fever or reaction to the medication or after office business hours you can call:

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IF YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY CALL 911.