To evaluate your progress and healing, Dr. Michael H. Connor will see you for post-operative checks during the first 1-5 weeks. It is common to experience discomfort for at least the first week following your procedure.
Medications
Please take your medications as prescribed. If you are looking for an alternative to prescription medication, we recommend one of the following dosages: 3 Advil Liqui-Gels and 2 Regular Strength Tylenol, or 3 Advil Liqui-Gels and 1 Extra Strength Tylenol, every 4-6 hours as needed. These should not be taken along with any prescribed medication containing Acetaminophen (Tylenol), i.e.; Percocet, Hydrocodone, Vicoden or Tylenol with Codeine.
Swelling Bleeding
Swelling may increase 2-3 days following the procedure and can be alleviated by placing an ice pack over the outside cheek area for 20 minutes on and off. Also, a small amount of bleeding is normal. If continuous bleeding occurs, do not rinse your mouth. Elevate your head when lying down, apply moistened gauze over the area (you can even enclose a moistened tea bag in the gauze as you apply pressure), and call the office if bleeding persists.
Smoking Alcohol
Please be aware that it is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking prescription pain medications. Do not smoke for at least two weeks following surgery; otherwise, your healing process will slow down and you could end up with compromised results.
Diet
We recommend soft foods for your post-operative diet, including: Jell-O, Bananas, Yogurt, Pasta, Milk Shakes, Casseroles, Eggs, Fish, Cottage Cheese, Soups, Pudding, Rice, Apple Sauce, Oatmeal, Macaroni Cheese and Mashed Potatoes.
Suture Removal
There may be increased discomfort 3-4 days after the surgical procedure as the tissues begin to heal; this may cause the tissue to pull against the sutures. You may take some form of pain medication one hour prior to your suture removal appointment. You also need to take prescribed antibiotics an hour prior to your appointment.
Please call Orlando Periodontics & Implants for any further questions or concerns, and to schedule your appointment with our periodontist in Orlando, Florida.