Congratulations on completing your full mouth reconstructions procedure with us at Palmetto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry! Your road toward teeth and smiles that are healthier and more beautiful has taken a significant step forward. To guarantee the most effective healing and the most favorable consequences, it’s crucial to follow these post-operative instructions carefully.
Immediate Post-Op Care (First 24 Hours)
- Rest and Recovery: Prioritize rest for the first 24 hours following surgery. Avoid strenuous activities that could increase your heart rate or blood pressure, potentially leading to bleeding or swelling.
- Bleeding Management: Some slight bleeding is normal. If you experience bleeding, gently bite on gauze pads placed over the surgical site for 30-60 minutes. If bleeding persists, contact our office.
- Swelling and Ice Packs: Swelling is a natural response to surgery. To minimize swelling, apply ice packs to the affected area for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off during the first day.
Pain Management
- Medication: Once the anesthesia wears off, you will likely experience some discomfort. We will prescribe pain medication; please take it as directed. If you prefer over-the-counter options, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is usually sufficient. Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen initially, as they can increase bleeding.
Oral Hygiene
- Gentle Care: Maintain oral hygiene by gently brushing around the surgical sites. Avoid disturbing the area with aggressive brushing or flossing during the initial healing phase.
- Saltwater Rinses: After the first 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution (1) cup of hot water with 1 teaspoon of salt three times a day to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Eating and Drinking
- Soft Diet: For the first few days, stick to a soft or liquid diet. Foods like yogurt, smoothies, soups, and mashed potatoes are ideal. Gradually reintroduce more solid foods as your comfort permits.
- Hydration: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Avoid using straws, as the suction can disrupt the surgical sites.
Follow-Up Appointments
- Regular Check-Ups: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments so we can monitor your healing process and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
- Immediate Concerns: If you experience severe pain, prolonged bleeding, or any signs of infection (such as excessive swelling, redness, or discharge), please get in touch with us immediately.
Long-Term Care
- Protect Your Investment: Full-mouth reconstructions are a significant investment in your oral health. Protect this investment through regular dental check-ups and cleanings and by following a robust oral hygiene routine.
- Avoid Harmful Habits: To ensure the longevity of your reconstruction, avoid habits that can damage your teeth, such as chewing on ice, biting fingernails, or using your teeth as tools.
At Palmetto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities. We’re here to support you through every step of your recovery process.
Remember, it’s normal to experience some discomfort and adjustments as you adapt to your new smile. We’re confident that with proper care, your full mouth reconstruction will enhance your quality of life and bring you many years of happy, and healthy smiles.
Should you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact our team. We’re here to assist you in achieving and maintaining optimal oral health.