Pre-Operative Instructions For Periodontal Surgery
Medical History Review
- Inform us about all medications, supplements, and medical conditions, including any allergies.
Medications
- Follow instructions regarding continuation or alteration of current medications.
- Avoid aspirin and other blood thinners for a week prior unless otherwise instructed.
Eating & Drinking
- Eat a normal meal the night before.
- If IV sedation is planned, refrain from eating or drinking for eight hours before surgery.
Oral Hygiene
- Brush and floss your teeth the night before and morning of the surgery.
- A prescription mouth rinse may be provided to use prior to the procedure.
Dress & Transport
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
- Remove any jewelry before arriving for your surgery.
- Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home if sedation is planned.
Additional Considerations
- Avoid smoking or alcohol 24 hours before surgery.
- Notify us if you develop a cold, sore throat, or other illnesses prior to the procedure.
Post-Operative Instructions For Periodontal Surgery
Bleeding
- Use the provided gauze to apply gentle pressure to the surgical site if bleeding persists.
- Avoid spitting, rinsing, or using straws for the first 24 hours.
Swelling & Discomfort
- Apply ice packs to the affected side, 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off, for the first 24 hours.
- Take prescribed pain medications as directed.
Diet
- Start with soft, cool foods, and gradually return to a normal diet as tolerated.
- Avoid hot, spicy, or hard foods initially.
- Drink plenty of fluids but avoid alcoholic, caffeinated, or hot beverages.
Oral Hygiene
- Continue gentle brushing, avoiding the surgical site.
- Rinse with a warm saltwater solution or prescribed mouth rinse starting the day after surgery.
Activity
- Rest for the first 24 hours and avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
Smoking & Alcohol
- Refrain from smoking and alcohol for at least 48-72 hours.
Sutures & Follow-Up
- If sutures were placed, a follow-up appointment would be scheduled for removal.
- Attend all follow-up appointments and report any unusual symptoms.
Post-Operative Instructions For Implants
Initial Care
- Bite down gently on gauze to control bleeding, changing gauze as needed.
- Avoid touching, probing, or rinsing the surgical site on the day of surgery.
Swelling & Pain Management
- Use ice packs intermittently for the first 24 hours.
- Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling.
- Take prescribed pain medications and antibiotics as directed.
Oral Hygiene
- Brush gently, avoiding the implant site, and use a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- After the first day, rinse with warm salt water or prescribed mouth rinse to keep the area clean.
Diet
- Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the side of the implant.
- Stay hydrated, but avoid using straws as this can disrupt the surgical site.
Avoid Certain Activities
- No smoking or alcohol consumption for at least a week, as these can hinder healing.
- Avoid strenuous physical activities for a few days.
Healing Abutments & Prosthetics
- If temporary healing abutments or prosthetics were placed, take extra care not to disturb them.
Follow-Up & Monitoring
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor the healing and integration of the implant.
- Notify our office if you experience excessive swelling, intense discomfort, fever, or any unusual symptoms.