Post-Operative Instructions Soft Tissue Grafts
1. The material that is covering the operative area(s) is periodontal dressing. It should not
be disturbed. Small portions of the dressing may chip off, this is normal. Proper healing
will occur whether or not the dressing remains.
2. To minimize swelling apply an ice pack alternating 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off.
Be careful not to dislodge the dressing or disturb the graft area. Continue this procedure
until bedtime. Do not apply an ice pack after the day of surgery. Nevertheless swelling
and/or discoloration may occur and last four days or more.
3. You must take all the antibiotic medication that has been prescribed. If possible take the
prescribed pain medication before any pain occurs. Tomorrow, if the prescribed pain
medication is not longer necessary, in its place you may take extra-strength Tylenol for
soreness. Do not take aspirin.
4. Do not eat any hot (temperature) or spicy foods. Although you may chew your food
almost normally after placing the food in your mouth, you must not bite into anything
(apple, sandwich, etc). A semi-soft diet may be necessary. An instant breakfast or liquid
food supplement high in protein is desirable.
5. Do not rinse today. The blood clot must be given time to form. It should not be
disturbed. Rinsing, brushing your teeth, using straws or spitting may prevent the blood
from clotting and prolong bleeding. Tomorrow begin rinsing with perioguard or peridex.
6. Expect slight bleeding during the first 24 hours. A slight rise in body temperature may
also occur.
7. Following surgery proper rest is important to aid healing and reduce the possibility of
discomfort, bleeding and other complications. It is important to avoid excessive exertion
of any type at least four days (jogging, tennis, mowing the lawn, bending over, lifting
heavy objects, etc). Tomorrow, try to follow your regular daily activities if they do not
require excessive exertion.
8. Perform your normal homecare procedures only in the areas where surgery was not done.
Teeth in the surgical area may be sensitive to hot and cold for several weeks.
9. Please contact us if:
a. Excessive bleeding occurs
b. You develop a rash or have an allergic reaction to any medication (discontinue all
medications immediately)
c. Severe pain is present in spite of medication