General Guidelines:
After surgery, follow these instructions to promote healing and prevent complications: bite on gauze as directed, apply cold compresses, avoid smoking and alcohol, take all medications as prescribed, eat soft foods, and brush your teeth carefully. Do not rinse vigorously, use a straw, or sneeze/forcefully blow your nose. Contact your dentist immediately if you notice any unusual symptoms.

Immediate Care:

  1. Gauze Pressure: Bite firmly on the gauze as instructed by your dentist to control bleeding. If bleeding continues, replace the gauze and bite again.
  2. Cold Compress: Apply a cold pack to the outside of the surgical area for 24–48 hours. Use 15–20 minutes on, 15–20 minutes off cycles to reduce swelling.
  3. Medication: Take painkillers and antibiotics exactly as prescribed by your dentist.
  4. Diet: Eat soft foods such as rice porridge, soup, or congee for the first 2–4 days. Avoid very hot or strongly flavored foods.
  5. Brushing: Brush your teeth normally but carefully, avoiding trauma to the surgical area.
  6. Oral Rinse: Gently rinse your mouth with salt water as instructed by your dentist, after meals and before bedtime.
  7. Elevate Head While Sleeping: Keep your head elevated with pillows for the first 1–2 nights to help reduce swelling.

Things to Avoid:

  • Rinsing/Sucking: Do not rinse vigorously or use a straw for the first 10 days after surgery.
  • Sneezing/Blowing Nose: Avoid forceful nose blowing or sneezing. If you must sneeze, do so with your mouth open.
  • Irritants: Avoid smoking and alcohol for at least 48 hours after surgery or as instructed by your dentist.
  • Touching the Wound: Do not touch or probe the surgical site with your tongue or fingers.
  • Physical Activities: Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that may cause trauma to the surgical area.

When to Contact Your Dentist Immediately:

  • Persistent or excessive bleeding
  • Severe pain, swelling, or fever that does not improve
  • Allergic reactions to medications such as rash or difficulty breathing
  • Any other concerning or unusual symptoms

Follow-up for suture removal as scheduled