After Surgical Endodontic Treatment

surgical instructions

To Control Swelling

To minimize swelling, place an ice pack or frozen vegetables in bag over the affected area 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off and repeat for the balance of the day. Ice therapy reduces swelling and discomfort. Only use ice for the first 24 hours after surgery.


	Avoid hot foods or drinks. Keep your head elevated the first two nights after surgery by sleeping on two pillows.

To Control Bleeding


	Do not rinse for 4-6 hours after surgery. Avoid medications that promote excessive bleeding e.g. aspirin, anticoagulants. Avoid strenuous exercise for 2-3 days.

To Control Discomfort

Discomfort may be more severe especially if surgery has been extensive. The doctor will instruct you as to the appropriate analgesics to take to control the post-operative discomfort.

Diet

A cold liquid diet is recommended for the balance of the day (e.g. milkshakes, ice-cream, yogurt, nutriment, instant breakfast etc.) Avoid hot food and drink.

Oral Hygiene

It is important to keep your mouth clean. Brush and floss those teeth where surgery was not performed. DO NOT BRUSH in the surgical area.

Rinse gently starting before bedtime the day of surgery. Thereafter, rinse twice a day with a teaspoon salt in a glass of warm water for 30 seconds and twice per day with an anti-bacterial mouthwash (e.g. Orocleanse) for 30 seconds.

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