After Periodontal Surgery

The objective of treatment for gum disease is to eliminate the source of irritation or infection. If you have had periodontal treatment, follow these home care instructions.

Discomfort

After any surgical procedure a certain amount of discomfort is expected.  By taking the prescribed medications as directed, your discomfort should be reduced.

Bleeding

Slight oozing is normal for the first day following surgery.  To minimize post – operative bleeding you should avoid rinsing for 24 hours, exercise, and eating hard or sharp foods that may further traumatize the wound.  If bleeding does occur, apply pressure to the area for twenty minutes with a piece of damp gauze or a tea bag.  If bleeding is severe and does not stop please contact Dr. Freilich.

Diet

Although your mouth may be sore it is very important to consume fluids the day of surgery.  Example: Milk shakes, Ensure, Orange juice, Apple juice and milk.  Clear fluids such as soup broth, juice, and jell-o are recommended for the first 24 hours.  Soft foods such as eggs, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and ice cream are recommended for 2-3 days following surgery.  Avoid foods with small particles that can become trapped under the flap such as nuts, fruits with seeds, chips etc.  It is important to eat a full but modified diet as your body needs proteins, vitamins, minerals, and calories to heal and fight infection.  500mg of Vitamin C per day may also help healing.  Avoid extremely hot and spicy foods.  Avoid alcohol as it can interact with the medications you are taking.

Swelling

To minimize swelling apply ice for 20 minutes on / 20 minutes off for the first 24 hours.  Sleep with an extra pillow above your head for the first night and take the anti-inflammatory medications Dr. Freilich recommends. Expect swelling to reach a maximum 2-3 days following surgery.  Some bruising may occur and should not alarm you.  You may also experience stiffness of the jaw, which can be relieved with gentle stretching on the 2nd – 3rd post operative day.

Oral Hygiene

It is very important to keep your mouth as clean as possible to reduce the chance of infection.  You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, every day following surgery. Do not brush the area of surgery as you will traumatize the site. Dr. Freilich will advise you at your follow up visit when you can start brushing the surgical area.  Use Peridex mouth rinse two times a day starting the same day of surgery.  Make sure you brush before using the rinse (this can reduce staining), and rinse for a full minute.  Remember not to eat or drink for 30 minutes following rinsing.   

Rest

After surgery you should try to rest as much as possible for 1-2 days to allow your body to heal.  Avoid exercise as it will increase your heart rate and blood pressure which can lead to increased swelling and bleeding.

Smoking

Do not smoke for at least 72 hours to reduce post-operative pain and chance of infection. Healing is significantly compromised in smokers.  Do not drink alcohol as it may interact with the medications you have been prescribed.  

Sedation

If you received any form of sedation at your appointment, do not drive your car or participate in any activities that will require you to be alert and of sound mind for 24hrs.  Go directly home after you fill your prescriptions and rest.

The major concern of this office is your comfort and the success of your surgery. If you have any problems, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Freilich at (416) 804-9560. We provide 24 hour, 7 days a week emergency service for all our patients.