Oral Surgery Post-Operative Instructions Lancaster, Hummelstown, & Lititz

PAIN MANAGEMENT

For most procedures over the counter pain medications are sufficient for managing pain when taken regularly in the first 48 hours on a scheduled basis. If you are able to take:

1. NSAIDs (Advil, Motrin, or Ibuprofen) are recommended to be taken for postoperative pain
2. If you are not able to take NSAIDs, we recommend Extra Strength Tylenol (Acetaminophen)
3. For patients who can take both Tylenol and NSAIDs alternating these two medications is recommended as follows: Advil 600mg, 3 hours later Tylenol 500mg, 3 hours later Advil 600mg
4. In the event that your surgeon has prescribed a narcotic, continue to take the NSAIDs regularly, (if you are able to) to help with inflammation and discomfort, and only take the narcotic as needed for breakthrough pain. Take narcotics only as prescribed, and do not drive or operate heavy machinery while under the influence of the medication. Be aware of the risks associated with taking controlled substances.

*Electronic prescriptions are sent directly to your pharmacy. We recommend that you call the pharmacy prior to pick-up to ensure it is ready.

BLEEDING

Oozing or blood tinged saliva is normal for 24-48 hours following surgery. If moderate bleeding continues, it can usually be controlled with the following:

1. Take a clean gauze pad and gently wipe any excess blood from the
2. Roll a fresh piece of gauze up like a Tootsie Roll, fold it in half, and place the gauze pad directly on the surgical Apply moderate pressure by biting down for 30 minutes. Do not disturb the gauze pad during this time. Continue until bleeding has stopped/slowed. Ultimately, the pressure is what stops the bleeding.
3. If bleeding continues after using multiple gauze pads, we recommend moistening a tea bag and placing it at the surgical site and apply pressure like with the gauze. The tannic acid in the tea bag will help with clotting. It is recommended to remain calm and lie down with your head elevated. Good pain control will also shorten bleeding times.
4. Avoid spitting, smoking, and straw use as this will cause additional bleeding and contributes to dry socket.
5. If bleeding persists after following the above instructions, contact the office at (717) 394-3033 to speak with the doctor on call.

RINSING

1. Gently rinse with warm salt water starting 24 hours after your surgery. 1 tsp of salt mixed with 8oz of warm water is the proper dilution to use. Rinsing should be done 2 times a day for the first 1-2 weeks after Continue to maintain good oral hygiene with daily brushing and be gentle near the surgical sites.

*If your doctor has provided you with a prescription mouthwash take as directed. This replaces the salt water rinse regimen.

1. If a Monoject irrigating syringe was provided to you, do not use it until five days after your extraction. Fill the syringe with regular tap water, place the tip of the syringe over the extraction site, and gently irrigate the area to remove debris.

SWELLING

To limit swelling, place an ice pack on the outside of the face; 20 minutes on, 40 minutes off, for the first 48 hours after surgery. The third day following surgery, transition to warm moist heat.

*Swelling usually peaks on day 3 after surgery and then begins to resolve. Swelling may limit mouth opening as well.

DIET

Maintain a soft diet during the healing phase and stay well hydrated. Soft food include items such as: mashed potatoes, pasta, eggs, yogurt, applesauce, and soups. Solid foods may be added to the diet as tolerated. GOOD NUTRITION = GOOD HEALING

SUTURES

Most sutures that are placed are dissolvable, and will fall out in 3-7 days. If your surgeon has placed non-dissolvable sutures they will be removed by your surgeon at the follow up appointment.

FOLLOW UP APPOINTMENTS

1. Not every surgical procedure requires a follow up appointment. At the completion of your surgery, your surgeon may recommend a follow up In that case, you can schedule your follow up immediately after your surgery.
2. If you experience worrisome post-surgical symptoms (bleeding, swelling, excessive pain, numbness) please call our office immediately. We will make it our priority to see you as quickly as possible.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS AFTER GENERAL ANESTHESIA

• Drowsiness after sedation is common in the first 24
• Lay down with your head elevated and focus on
• Nausea and vomiting can occur
• Focus on hydration while experiencing nausea and vomiting and then resume soft foods after

Pre-Surgical Guidelines

The pre-surgical diet guidelines below are for patients using oral or injectable GLP-1 medication to manage diabetes or for weight loss. Your physician, surgeon, or anesthesiologist may recommend an alternative plan. In that case, follow your physician's instructions. Patients taking a GLP-1 medication for diabetes MUST contact the prescribing doctor to review blood sugar management before surgery.

 

Instructions for Holding GLP-1 Medication

• If you take a GLP-1 medication WEEKLY, HOLD FOR 1 WEEK BEFORE You may resume the medication after you return home, and surgery has been completed.
• If you take a GLP-1 medication DAILY, HOLD THE DOSE THE DAY BEFORE You may resume the medication after you return home, and surgery has been completed.

Pre-Operative Diet and Fasting Instructions

• 24 hours before your surgery time, start a clear liquid
• You may have clear liquids only the day before your No solid foods are permitted.
• Starting at Midnight, begin fasting. NO FOOD OR LIQUIDS. This includes water, mints, gum, and hard candy.

Clear Liquid Diet

Allowed

• Water
• Apple, Cranberry, or Grape Juice (pulp-free)
• Gatorade
• Black Coffee or Tea
• Clear Broth
• Ginger ale or Seltzer
• Jello, Italian Ice, or Popsicles (pulp-free)

Not Allowed 

• Milk or Dairy Products (including in coffee & tea)
• Citrus Juices
• Prune Juice
• Juices with Pulp
• Any food or beverage not listed in the “allowed” column