Expose and Bond Post Operative Instructions
PROTECTION OF THE BLOOD CLOT:
Maintain gentle pressure by biting on the moistened gauze that has been placed over the surgical area. Keep steady, firm pressure for 20 minutes. Some bleeding is to be expected for the first day. You might still notice some oozing till 24 hours post-surgery.
DO NOT RINSE: or use mouthwash for at least 24 hours. After 24 hours, rinse with warm salt water; use 1 teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water and use as a rinse to promote healing. (The use of over-the-counter mouthwashes is not encouraged.)
EATING:
Do not eat for 2-3 hours after surgery to establish a solid blood clot. Follow a balanced liquid to a soft diet for at least 1-2 weeks; e.g. milk, milkshakes, ice cream, soups, broths, fruit juices, eggs, oatmeal, custards, etc. Avoid chewing at the surgical site(s).
AVOID ALL:
Excessive activity for 1 day. Don’t consume liquids through a straw. Don’t spit excessively. No alcoholic beverages or carbonated beverages for 1 week and refrain from smoking until healing is well established.
CONTROL OF SWELLING:
Gently apply ice packs to the area for periods of 10 minutes on, few minutes off. Continue to the ice for the first 24 hours. A slight fever (101 or less) is a normal part of the healing process. Swelling usually peaks on the 3rd to 4th day.
