Post-operative care

Bleeding

Post-care bleeding may occur during the first 24 hours. Your saliva will be tinged with red. After the first 24 hours, rinse your mouth gently with salt water (1 teaspoon in a glass of water.) 5 to 6 times a day and after each meal.

After the procedure, bite down on a cotton ball for 45 to 60 minutes, maintaining steady pressure. This step is essential for the formation of the clot. This clot forms immediately after surgery and allows for a better recovery. Loss of the clot can lead to complications such as bleeding, pain and infection.

If, for some reason, the bleeding resumes, place a slightly moistened tea bag on the wound and bite down gently while holding pressure for 45 to 60 minutes. This will allow a new clot to form. However, if the bleeding persists, tell your dentist.

Feeding

For 24 hours after the procedure, do not drink through a straw, spit, rinse with smoke or play sports. It is preferable to eat lukewarm food to reduce bleeding. The goal is to avoid all actions that can cause clot loss. Start with warm, soft foods and, as the wound heals, continue with firmer foods.

Pain

It is normal to experience pain for 24 to 48 hours after a procedure. Discomfort varies from person to person. To reduce this discomfort, take the painkillers or anti-inflammatories prescribed by your dentist. A less powerful painkiller can be taken if the pain diminishes over the days.

Swelling

It is possible that the surgery may cause swelling. To prevent swelling or reduce discomfort, we suggest putting ice in a damp cloth on the cheeks for 15 minutes every hour for the first 48 hours. After the 48 hours, it is best to apply heat to increase blood circulation and recovery. Keeping the head higher than the rest of the body will help reduce recovery time.

After a gum graft

Plan to stay home the day of the surgery and the next day. During these two days, talk as little as possible. While you sleep, keep your head elevated to reduce swelling.

Brush and floss your teeth

The day after surgery, start by brushing and flossing the areas that have not been operated on. Avoid the surgical sites until you are told to do so during your postoperative visit. A whitish film may form on the surgical site. This is completely normal.

24 first hours

Proper nutrition is essential for normal healing. After surgery, your diet should be limited to cold liquids. Food supplements are strongly recommended. Avoid: peroxide, alcohol, soft drinks and drinking through a straw.

After the 24 first hours

Gradually switch to soft, easy-to-chew foods such as: cooked vegetables, cooked fish, pasta or meatloaf. Do not skip meals. Eat three meals a day and you will feel better and heal better.