Post-Operative Guidelines
Operative guidelines are essential components of the overall surgical process, aimed at ensuring patient safety, optimizing outcomes, and promoting a smooth recovery. Since oral surgery might occasionally have very minor side effects, not all the guidelines may be applicable. Following these guidelines will help you achieve our goal of a smooth and enjoyable recovery; nevertheless, if you have any queries regarding your progress, please do not hesitate to contact us on:
012 945 3027 (office hours)012 333 6000 (emergency hours)
reception@kluge.co.za
Post-Operative Guidelines
Medication
As prescribed.
First Hour
Bite down gently yet firmly on the gauze packs that have been placed over the surgical sites, making sure they remain in place. Do not remove them for the first 20 minutes. If active bleeding or oozing continues, place enough new gauze to obtain pressure over the surgical site for another 20 minutes. It is best to moisten the gauze with tap water to prevent sticking. The gauze may be changed thereafter as necessary.
Exercise Caution
Do not disturb the surgical area today. Do not rinse vigorously or probe the area with any objects. You may brush your teeth gently. Do not smoke or participate in any physical activity for 5-7 days; this is detrimental for healing and preventing dry socket.
Persistent Bleeding
Intermittent oozing and bleeding overnight are normal. Bleeding should never be severe. If so, it usually means that the packs are being clenched between the teeth only, and no pressure is being applied to the surgical site. If bleeding persists, you may substitute the gauze with a teabag. If uncontrolled bleeding continues, please call our practice.
Swelling
Swelling is often associated with oral surgery. It can be minimized by using a cold pack, ice bag, or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel and applied firmly to the cheek adjacent to the surgical area. This should be applied 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off during the first 24 hours after surgery. If you notice swelling 3-5 days after surgery, you may apply warm compresses to the skin.
Pain
Unfortunately, most oral surgery is accompanied by some degree of discomfort. You will usually have a prescription for pain medication. If you take the first pill before the anesthetic has worn off, you should be able to manage any discomfort better. Take your pain medication with food. Remember that the most severe pain is usually within 6 hours after the local anesthetic wears off; after that, your need for medication should lessen. If you find you are taking large amounts of pain medicine at frequent intervals, please call our practice. If you anticipate needing more prescription medication for the weekend, you must call for a refill during weekday business hours. By day 3, you should notice more comfort, although still swollen.
Diet
Avoid extremely hot foods. Do not use a straw for the first few days after surgery. It is best to avoid foods like nuts, popcorn, etc., which may get lodged in the socket areas. The sooner you return to your normal diet, the sooner you will feel better, gain strength, and heal.
Sharp Edges
If you feel sharp edges or something hard in the surgical areas, it is likely you are feeling bony walls that once supported the extracted tooth. Occasionally, small slivers of bone may work themselves out during the following week or so. If pain or discomfort continues, please call the practice.
Oral Hygiene
Keeping your mouth clean after your surgery is essential. Gently rinse with lukewarm salt water or prescribed mouth rinse at least twice daily. You may brush your teeth gently.
Testimonials
Empowering Smiles, Transforming Lives.
Driven by precision and compassion, our maxillofacial and oral surgeon specialises in enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality of the face and oral region.
With Dr. Hermann Kluge you are definitely in good hands. I had two extractions, an implant and an epicectomy done by Dr. Kluge. He is a very experienced oral surgeon, very patient-centered, empathetic and gentle. His assistants, both medical and administrative, were also very supportive.
Irina Ramfu-Flader