Patient Resources
Post Operative Instructions
1. Start taking your prescribed medications immediately following surgery. For your convenience, medications can be called into the pharmacy ahead of time. If you develop an adverse reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing) stop taking your medications and immediately contact Dr. Burke.
2. DO NOT DISTURB THE AREA OF SURGERY. The first stages of healing are critical to the final outcome. Avoid vigorous chewing, excessive spitting, or rinsing as initial healing may be delayed and bleeding may ensue.
3. Expect minor bleeding or oozing from the surgical site. This bleeding may continue throughout the first day. For the first hour, keep firm pressure on the area of surgery by biting on the gauze sponge placed in your mouth at the office. If bleeding persists, continue pressure on a fresh sponge for an additional 30 minutes to an hour. Biting on a moist tea bag wrapped in gauze may help control persistent oozing from the surgical site. Tea has an ingredient that promotes blood clotting. If bleeding persists, contact Dr. Burke immediately.
4. LIMIT PHYSICAL ACTIVITY during the first 24-48 hours after surgery. Overexertion may lead to post operative bleeding and discomfort. When you lie down, keep your head elevated on a pillow.
5. PAIN following oral surgery typically is the most severe in the first 24-48 hours after the procedure. Take your prescribed pain medications as instructed immediately following your procedure- do not wait for the pain. Do not drink alcoholic beverages while taking prescription pain medication. Persistent or increasing pain 3-4 days following oral surgery may be a sign of infection. If you feel that this may be happening to you, please contact us so that we can help make you more comfortable.
6. SWELLING related to the surgical procedure usually develops during the first 12-24 hours following surgery, often increasing on the second day. It should begin to subside by the third day. Swelling can be minimized by placing an ice pack on the side of your face for 20 minutes every hour during the first 24 hours following the surgery. Anti-inflammatory medications, such as Motrin or Advil, also help decrease swelling.
7. AVOID USING A STRAW for several days as it may cause the blood clot to dislodge and delay healing.
8. It is recommended that you remain on a soft diet for the first week following your surgical procedure. Avoid the surgical site completely for the first one to two weeks, including brushing. You may be placed on a prescription mouthwash to keep the area clean. Avoid over the counter rinses such as Listerine as these may irritate the surgical site.
9. Take any regularly scheduled medication (for diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.) on your regular schedule unless advised to do otherwise.
10. TRY TO AVOID SMOKING COMPLETELY, as it tends to slow the healing process and may also contribute to development of infection.
Sedation Instructions
● You may not have anything to eat or drink (including water) for eight (8) hours prior to the appointment.
● A responsible adult must accompany the patient to the office, remain in the office during the procedure, and drive the patient home.
● The patient should not drive a vehicle or operate any machinery for 24 hours following sedation.
● Please wear loose fitting clothing with sleeves which can be rolled up past the elbow, and low-heeled shoes.
● Do not wear lipstick or nail polish on the day of surgery.
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