• Please take medication as prescribed
• Numbness usually goes away within 2-4 hours after surgery
• Bleeding is stopped by the time you leave the clinic. Some minor “weeping” is normal following surgery. Keep in mind, minor bleeding mixed with saliva may make it seem as if the area is bleeding more than it actually is. If this happens, bite lightly on a brewed tea bag – the tannic acid in the tea will help the area clot.
• Reduce bruising and swelling with a cold compress – 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off for the next 24 hours.
• Keep your head elevated for the first 24 hours, use an extra pillow when sleeping.
• Beginning the second day after surgery you can start using a warm compress in the area.
• Rinse and clean the area by gently swishing warm salt water rinses (1 tsp/12 oz water) or Peridex.
• Still lightly brush the adjacent teeth around the surgical site
• For the first 4-5 days, be careful with certain foods – chew on the opposite side of your mouth and avoid anything too spicy, small, or sharp.
• Do NOT, spit, suck through a straw, smoke, or drink alcohol for at least 3-5 days. Limit yourself to calm activities for the first 1-3 days, avoid strenuous exercise.

If sutures are placed:

• The sutures may come unraveled as you start to eat and clean around the area in the following week, try to avoid “playing” with the sutures with your tongue. Sutures will dissolve in 10-14 days.