Biopsy Post-Op Instructions

What are my post-operative instructions?

• Do not disturb the surgical area today. 
• Do not rinse or spit for 24 hours after surgery.
• Keep your fingers and tongue away from the socket or surgical area.
• Use ice packs on the surgical area (side of face) for the first 24 hours; apply ice 20 minutes on and 10 minutes off. (Note: Bags of frozen peas work well.)
• Good oral hygiene is essential to good healing. Wait 24hrs to start warm saltwater rinsing (a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water). Warm saltwater rinses should be used at least 4–5 times a day, especially after meals. If you are given a prescription for Peridex™ Oral Rinse, rinse for 30 seconds and spit twice per day. You may gently brush the tooth surfaces of the adjacent teeth the day after surgery, as long as the bristles don’t disturb the surgical site 
• If sutures (stitches) were placed, they are almost always the type that will dissolve and fall out within the first week or so after surgery, unless told otherwise. 

What should my activity level be? 

• If you have received IV sedation do not drive for 24 hours or while taking Narcotics.

Are there diet restrictions after surgery? 

• Your diet should consist mainly of soft, easily swallowed foods and cool drinks. Avoid anything that might get stuck in your teeth, so no seeds, nuts, rice, popcorn, or similar foods.

How do I manage pain after surgery? 

• After oral surgery procedures, pain is best managed with scheduled doses of NSAIDs such as Ibuprofen (up to 3200 mg daily) and Acetaminophen (up to 3000 mg daily). 
• If you are prescribed Ibuprofen 800mg, then alternate that with over-the-counter Acetaminophen (Tylenol 500mg) every 4 hours. For example, Take Ibuprofen 800mg at 12 o’clock then take Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 500mg 4’clock then Ibuprofen 800mg again at 8 o’clock. Continue alternating between the two every 4 hours. 
• If you are prescribed Ibuprofen 600mg, then alternate that with over-the-counter Acetaminophen (Tylenol 500mg) every 3 hours. For example, Take Ibuprofen 600mg at 12 o’clock then take Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 500mg 3’clock then Ibuprofen 800mg again at 6 o’clock. Continue alternating between the two every 3 hours
• In addition to the above medications, short term opioids (oxycodone or hydrocodone) may be prescribed by your provider. We recommend that you limit opioid use to instances when you feel severe pain (8/10 or more) despite scheduled doses of NSAIDs and acetaminophen
• Use of opioids (even short-term use) may lead to physical dependence and addiction. 
• To dispose of used opioids, return to opioid take back clinics or pharmacies. You can also mix it with coffee grounds in a sealed bag and dispose of it in the garbage. Do not flush the opioids down the drain.

When should I call my doctor?

• If you have increased swelling or bruising, severe or increased pain not relieved by medication.
• If you have any side effects to medications such as rash, nausea, headache, vomiting, increased irritability, or constipation. 
• If you have an oral temperature over 100.5 degrees. Check to make sure you are getting enough liquids. Dehydration can cause the body temperature to rise.

Who should I call if I have questions? 

• If you have questions during normal business hours please call 706-860-8228