Diet
The first meal should be a light soft diet. Drink plenty of fluids and progress to soft foods.
Pain/Comfort
If there is more discomfort than can be controlled with ibuprofen or the medicine the physician has prescribed, call the clinic at the number below.
Some numbness of the lip and tongue may be present. Be cautious when eating and don’t chew your lip, tongue or cheek. If numbness persists a full week following surgery, it could last several months. Bring this to the doctor’s attention. If more pain exists than can be con- trolled by Tylenol or the medicine your doctor prescribed, call the clinic.
Site Care
Oozing can persist for three to seven days following surgery. Should bleeding reoccur, place a tailed gauze or wet tea bag on the bleeding site. It should be thick enough to create pressure when the jaws are closed tightly. Bite down for a full 20-30 minutes. Repeat two to three times if necessary. Direct pressure is necessary. Ensure the gauze is placed directly on the point of bleeding. If bleeding persists, call the clinic/ dental office. Unless you have been advised otherwise, all stitches placed during surgery will dissolve.
Activity
Rest the day of surgery. Return to your normal routine as you are able.
Urinary
If you are unable to urinate for a period of six to eight hours, contact the hospital as instructed below.
Questions or Problems
If bleeding persists, contact Telehealth Nursing (651-229-3820).
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your health care providers. If you have any questions, talk with your doctor or others on your health care team. If you are a Gillette patient with urgent questions or concerns, please contact Telehealth Nursing at 651-229-3890.