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POST-PERIODONTAL SURGERY INSTRUCTIONS

Medications

  • DO take all oral medications as prescribed by Dr. Flamme as directed for the time frame recommended, including antibiotics and rinses.
  • DO use any prescribed rinse agent such as Periogard, Peridex, Chlorhexidine 0.12% by swishing one half capful for 30 seconds 3X/daily and expectorating.
  • DO take over-the-counter pain medications (e.g. Tylenol, Ibuprofen, naproxen) you are familiar with, in the reccommended dosage.
  • DO consider taking additional prescribed pain medication in addition to or in lieu of the OTC pain medication with which you are familiar.
  • Arnica cream can be applied to the skin 3x/day if bruising is anticipated.
  • DO call the office if you experience any reaction to medication or feel you must stop taking a prescribed medication and discuss the issue with Dr. Flamme.

Swelling

  • DO expect swelling in the treated area, which peaks 3-4 days after therapy.
  • DO place ice on the affected area (15 min on/15 min off).
  • DO sleep with pillow to elevate the head.

Bleeding

  • DO expect some minor bleeding, even from the nose, up to 48 hours after surgical therapy.
  • DO NOT hesitate to call Dr. Flamme or the office if you have any concern about the degree of bleeding you experience.
  • DO consider placing an old towel on a pillow to protect it overnight.

Food

  • DO NOT have hard, crunchy foods for at least one week.
  • DO NOT have foods with small seeds or popcorn.
  • HAVE softer, mildly flavored foods in small pieces that are easy to swallow until your comfort allows a broader range of dietary choices and you are directed to do so.
  • AVOID very hot or very cold foods or drinks until healing is more complete.

Oral Hygiene

  • DO NOT brush, toothpick, touch, disturb or floss the treated area(s) until directed to do so by Dr. Flamme.
  • DO clean all other teeth not within the treated area.
  • AVOID over-the-counter rinses such as Listerine, Scope, etc. as they may be harsh or burn when used.
  • DO rinse with salt water if you have not been given a prescription chlorhexidine rinse or if you do not wish to use the chlorhexidine rinse.

Nasal Congestion

  • DO NOT blow nose if possible after any SINUS therapy.
  • DO NOT use nasal sprays, nasal lavage, nasal decongestants.
  • DO consider an oral decongestant.

Dentures

  • AVOID wearing any type of denture or removable temporary device as much as possible.

Exercise

  • AVOID purposeful exercise for 48 hours after therapy.

Sutures

  • DO NOT attempt to remove sutures at home. Call the office to relate the suture issue you have, as an office visit may be needed for it to be removed.

Smoking

  • DO NOT smoke as it negatively impacts every aspect of healing, especially grafting of any kind.
 

If you have any questions or concerns regarding any of the above either before or after any procedure, please call Dr. Flamme at the Summit office (908 273 1337) or the Annandale office (908 735 4077). For emergencies during non-business hours call Dr. Flamme's cell phone (908 612 5978).