POSTOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS
General Instructions

Increase your fluid intake following surgery and maintain a soft diet. If you have difficulty drinking fluids or swallowing contact the office.

Do not wear your dentures unless otherwise told by your doctor. Pressure from the denture can cause the sutures to loosen and disturb the healing area (socket, bone graft, implants).

Do not pull on your lip to examine the surgical site. The incision may open which can jeopardize the bone graft or implant and delay healing.

Do not smoke for at least two weeks after surgery. Smoking will delay healing and contribute to a greater risk of graft and/or implant failure. Use the nicotine patch as directed if needed. Ask the doctor if you need these anti-smoking medications

Avoid rinsing vigorously or spitting until the sutures are removed.

Do not brush your teeth in the operated area until the sutures are removed (one to two weeks). Starting the day after surgery you may gently brush your teeth in areas distant from the surgical site. Rinse your toothbrush under hot water to soften the bristles and avoid vigorous rinsing. Gentle rinsing with Listerine, Peridex or warm salt water will help to clean the treated area. To make the salt water rinse, mix one teaspoon of salt with half a glass of very warm tap water.

Please limit your physical activity following surgery. You should be able to resume light activity in a day or two. Avoid physical exercise or strenuous activity for at least one week.