Gum Care Montreal
After your periodontal surgery, your lips, teeth and tongue may be numb for several hours. Avoid any chewing until the numbness has worn off. Don't eat anything for two hours following the surgery. For the first 48 hours, restrict you diet to soft foods such as yogurt, ice cream, soups and omelet's until you can chew comfortably. Avoid strenuous activities.
It is normal to experience some discomfort for several days after the surgery. Take pain medication as recommended or take a mild pain reliever such as Ibuprofen: (Advil, Motrin). Apply an ice pack (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) for 6 hours following the surgery to decrease pain and swelling. If antibiotics are prescribed, take them for the indicated length of time even if all the symptoms and signs of infections are gone.
After 24 hours, rinse three times a day with salt water ( 1tsp. of salt in a cup of lukewarm water) You can also apply a warm and humid compress to control discomfort.
Some slight bleeding is normal for a day or so following the surgery. If bleeding persists, apply firm pressure with a moist gauze pad or bite on a tea bag for 20 minutes. Call our office if it doesn't control bleeding or if the bleeding increases. Sutures will dissolve after a few days.
It is important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours, this should include brushing and flossing. Wait an extra 24 hours to brush at the site of surgery. This speeds the healing process and helps keep your breath and mouth fresh.
Call us if pain or swelling persists or if you have any question or concerns.
