For most patients, the feeling of numbness after local anaesthesia usually subsides after 1-4 hours. Do not eat anything or drink hot beverages until the numbness in your mouth wears off.
Please note that there is a small risk of pain and discomfort which can probably controlled with pain killers.
To control swelling, use an ice bag over the surgical area. Alternate keeping the ice bag on the site for 15 minutes, then off for 15 minutes. Keep alternating with the ice bag for the first 6 –8 hours after surgery.
Do not raise your lip to examine the surgical site for at least 24 hours. This can tear the very thin sutures. Please leave them alone.
Brush normally but gently, and only use electrical toothbrush on the surgical area from the third day after the surgical procedure day. From the third day after the surgical procedure day you can use your mouthwash (corsodyl) twice a day for at least two days after having the sutures removed to clean the surgical area. Alternatively, you can use hot salt mouthwashes (1 teaspoon of salt dissolved into a glass of warm water) every 3-4 hours until the sutures are removed to improve healing.
Maintain a soft nutritious diet. Avoid eating on the surgical area for two days. Be sure to drink large amounts of liquids.
The following are expected and should cause no concern:
Slight oozing of blood for 24-36 hours.
Swelling within 24 hours, and may come and go over the course of a few days.
Mild discomfort.
Discoloration or bruising of the skin.
Do not participate in athletic activity for the first day.
Keep your post-op appointment to have the sutures removed.
Should any difficulties or questions arise, please do not hesitate to call the practice at any time at 023 9275 4333.
