Post-Operative Care Instructions
Recovering smoothly from periodontal or implant surgery starts with knowing what to expect. These guidelines are designed to help manage your recovery, reduce discomfort, and flag situations that may need our attention.
Request an AppointmentPain Management
It’s normal to experience some discomfort during the first week after surgery. You’ll receive a prescription for pain medication to help manage this — take it as instructed, and avoid letting pain build up by staying consistent with your dosing schedule. To prevent nausea, avoid taking pain medication on an empty stomach.
If you prefer an over-the-counter option, a combination of Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be effective:
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- Option 1: 3 Advil Liqui-Gels + 2 Regular Strength Tylenol every 6 hours
- Option 2: 3 Advil Liqui-Gels + 1 Extra Strength Tylenol every 6 hours
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Important: If you’re taking prescription pain medications that already contain Acetaminophen (such as Percocet, Hydrocodone, or Tylenol with Codeine), avoid additional Tylenol to prevent exceeding the safe daily limit. Contact our office with any questions about medication usage.
Antibiotics
If an antibiotic is prescribed, take it exactly as directed until the full course is finished. Let our office know about any allergies or sensitivities to antibiotics. Taking antibiotics with food can help reduce the chance of nausea. Women using oral contraceptives should be aware that antibiotics can reduce their effectiveness.
Swelling
Swelling is common and typically peaks 2 to 3 days after surgery. To minimize it, apply an ice pack to the cheek near the surgical site for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off, as frequently as possible during the first 2 to 3 days.
Bleeding
A small amount of bleeding is normal. If bleeding becomes excessive or doesn’t stop:
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- Avoid rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours.
- Keep your head elevated while lying down.
- Apply moistened gauze to the area with moderate pressure for 20 minutes, repeating if needed.
- Try a moistened tea bag wrapped in gauze, applying pressure for 20 minutes.
- Contact our office if bleeding persists.
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Diet
Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the procedure was performed until you’re comfortable doing so. Skip hot foods or drinks for at least 1 day after surgery, and stick to soft foods such as yogurt, oatmeal, eggs, pasta, soup, mashed potatoes, and fruit. Good nutrition supports healing during recovery.
Smoking and Alcohol
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- Smoking — avoid it for at least 2 weeks, since it can delay healing and affect your surgical results.
- Alcohol — avoid it while healing and while taking prescription pain medication, as it can delay healing and interact with your medication.
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Oral Care
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- Rinsing — avoid rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours. After that, a gentle, diluted mouthwash can help keep the area clean.
- Brushing — avoid brushing directly on the surgical site, but you can resume brushing and flossing elsewhere in your mouth the day after surgery.
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Sutures and Healing
Some discomfort around 3 to 4 days after surgery is normal, as healing tissue can pull against sutures or dressing. Taking pain medication about an hour before your suture removal appointment can help minimize tenderness. If you require antibiotic premedication, take the prescribed dose 1 hour before that appointment as well.
Questions During Recovery
If anything comes up during your recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out during business hours at (734) 542-9904. For guidance before your procedure, see our Pre-Operative Instructions page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much pain is normal after periodontal surgery?
Some discomfort during the first week is expected and typically manageable with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication taken as directed.
When does swelling usually peak after surgery?
Swelling typically peaks 2 to 3 days after the procedure and can be managed with regular icing during that window.
What should I do if bleeding doesn’t stop?
Apply moistened gauze with steady pressure for 20 minutes, keep your head elevated, and contact our office if bleeding continues.
When can I brush my teeth again after surgery?
You can resume brushing and flossing everywhere except the surgical site the day after surgery.
Can I drink alcohol while recovering?
No, alcohol should be avoided while healing and while taking prescription pain medication.
What foods should I eat during recovery?
Soft foods like yogurt, oatmeal, eggs, pasta, soup, and mashed potatoes are recommended, and hot foods or drinks should be avoided for the first day.
Who do I contact if I have questions during recovery?
Call our office at (734) 542-9904 during business hours with any post-surgical questions or concerns.
