Care following dental surgery

Please refrain from the list below for the remainder of the day.

No Smoking
No Drinking From Straw
No Spitting
No Alcoholic Beverages
No Chewing Tobacco
No Hot Food
No Soda

How long do I leave the gauze in place?
Leave gauze in place for at least thirty minutes to control bleeding. DO NOT CONTINUE TO USE GAUZE AFTER 30 MINUTES UNLESS YOU SEE A BRIGHT RED FLOW OF BLOOD. If excessive bleeding occurs, call Dr. Kanion.

Can I rinse my mouth?
Do not rinse vigorously or use mouthwash for at least 24 hours. Vigorous rinsing may dislodge the blood clot. After 24 hours rinse mouth gently (1/2 tbsp. of salt in 8oz glass of hot water) 3 or 4 times daily.

Will I have swelling? Swelling following surgery is common and normal. It should only last 3-4 days before going away. Small bags of ice may be used for the first 24 hours. PLACE THE ICE BAG OVER THE AREA FOR 20 MINUTES ON AND 10 MINUTES OFF.

Bony edges and small bones fragments may work up through the gums during healing. These are not roots. If annoying, return to this office for their simple removal.

Can I brush my teeth?
Teeth should be given their usual care. (Be sure to floss :))

What can I eat?
Adequate food intake is necessary and soft foods may be indicated. Food for the first day; you should have only cold soft food such as: ice cream, yogurt, pudding, and applesauce. Following this you can have soft warm food such as oatmeal, eggs, soup, and pasta– increasing to a normal diet as healing permits.

Can I smoke?
DO NOT smoke until healing is well established, 3 days is recommended.

Do I need any pain medication?
Aspirin, Tylenol or Ibuprofen may be used if no prescription was given. Take pain medications as prescribed for mild pain. Do not take any pain medication on an empty stomach. (Swallow small amounts of 7-UP or Sprite if you become nauseated. If allergic symptoms appear, such as rash or itching stop taking the medication and call our office immediately.

WOMEN ONLY: if taking birth control pills and antibiotics are prescribed, you must use another form of contraception. Antibiotics interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills.

Questions?
Please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Kanion at 816.921.8187 should you have any questions or concerns. Our telephone is answered 24/7.