Post-Operative Instructions for Periodontal Surgery

Post-Surgical Precautions

1. Some bleeding is normal. If bleeding persists, apply pressure with gauze or clean cloth. Sit in an upright position, NO rinsing or spitting, apply pressure continuously for 45 minutes and repeat if necessary.
2. Apply ice to the outside of your face throughout the next 24 hours.(20 minutes on, 20 minutes off)
3. Swelling can occur following surgery, as can bruising.
4. NO Smoking for 4-6 hours after surgery
5. NO physical activity for minimum of 24-48 hours.(ie: exercise)

Diet

1. Only Cool Liquids for 4-6 hours after surgery. They should not be extremely hot the rest of the day.
2. Avoid eating on the side of surgery.  Softer foods are easier to manage.
3. Do not eat any spicy foods.
4. Do not drink citrus juices if you find them irritating to the gum tissue.
5. The periodontal dressing (plastic-like bandage)material will harden completely in approximately 4-6 hours. It will remain quite stable unless subjected to too much force as with chewing and tooth brushing. Small pieces may break off. If large pieces fall off and the area is very tender then call office for possible replacement.

Oral Hygiene Maintenance

1. Avoid brushing the surgical area for 7 days after surgery.And use Chlorhexidine-based mouthrinse to keep oral hygiene :1 rinse for 1 minuted, 3 times daily for 14 days
2. Clean the tooth as usual but avoid surgical area. Do not use toothpaste.
3. Use ultrasoft-bristle tooth brush to clean surgical area by *rolling toothbrushing technique after suture removal.

Reference:

Mucogingival Esthetic Surgery, Giovanni Zucchelli