Surgical Instructions
At Loudoun Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, our priority is providing you with the highest standard of care and guidance for a safe, smooth, and comfortable recovery. Please follow the surgical instructions below carefully. For any questions or unique concerns, feel free to reach out to us.
Pre-Operative Instructions
Preparation
- Eating & Drinking: For procedures involving IV sedation, avoid food and liquids for at least 8 hours before surgery.
- Medications: Inform your surgeon of any medications or medical conditions. Avoid aspirin or other blood-thinning medications unless directed.
- Assistance: Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from our office and remain with you afterward.
Post-Operative Instructions
General Care
- Pain Management: Use prescribed medication as directed. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (600 mg every 6 hours) may help, but avoid alcohol while on any medications.
- Bleeding Control: Bite down on gauze for the first hour. For continued bleeding, reposition gauze or apply a moist tea bag for 30–45 minutes.
- Swelling Management: Apply ice packs to the face for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off, during the first 48 hours. After that, warm compresses may help with stiffness.
Diet Instructions
- First 24 Hours: Limit to cool, soft foods like yogurt, pudding, applesauce, smoothies (no straws), and mashed potatoes.
- Day 2 Onward: Gradually add warm, soft foods such as oatmeal, eggs, and soups. Avoid spicy, crunchy, or hard foods.
- Week 1: Stick to a soft diet as tolerated. You may find a soft diet comfortable for up to one week post-surgery.
Specific Instructions by Procedure
Dental Implants & Bone Grafts
Recovery after dental implants and bone grafts requires special attention:
- Diet: Eat mild, soft foods to avoid disturbing the implant site. Gradually return to normal diet in 1–2 weeks.
- Swelling: Swelling peaks 48–72 hours post-surgery; keep head elevated, and apply ice.
Tooth Extractions & Wisdom Teeth Removal
After tooth extractions or wisdom teeth removal:
- Bleeding: Light bleeding is normal. If bleeding persists, use a moist tea bag to apply pressure.
- Avoid Straws: Suction can disrupt the healing site; avoid using straws for 72 hours post-surgery.
Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery
For orthognathic jaw surgery:
- Hospital Recovery: Expect an overnight stay if required. Swelling and numbness are typical for the first 1–2 weeks.
- Oral Hygiene: Use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush, avoid sutures, and rinse with a prescribed antimicrobial mouth rinse.
Sinus Communication
To aid recovery for sinus-related procedures:
- Avoid Blowing Nose: Do not blow your nose for at least two weeks.
- Gentle Rinsing: Use gentle saltwater rinses but avoid vigorous spitting.
Medications
- Pain Medication: Use as prescribed, but avoid driving or heavy machinery if using narcotics.
- Antibiotics: Complete the full course. If you experience any adverse reactions, such as a rash or stomach discomfort, contact our office.
- Antimicrobial Rinse: Use as directed to maintain cleanliness in the surgical area.
At-Home Tips for Recovery
- Rinsing: Avoid rinsing or spitting on the day of surgery. Begin warm saltwater rinses the following day, ideally after every meal and snack.
- Oral Hygiene: Brush gently around the surgical area but avoid disrupting sutures.
- Avoid Tobacco: Smoking can significantly slow healing and increase risks of infection; avoid for at least two weeks post-surgery.
- Physical Activity: Limit strenuous activities for 72 hours to minimize swelling and discomfort.
When to Call Our Office
Please contact us immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent Bleeding: If bleeding does not slow with pressure.
- Fever Over 101°F: Slightly elevated temperature is normal for 24–48 hours, but a fever may indicate infection.
- Swelling & Pain: Swelling that becomes hard, red, or very painful.
- Difficulty Swallowing or Opening Mouth: If you cannot comfortably open your mouth or experience difficulty swallowing.
Our doctors, including Dr. Bluhm, Dr. Dorsch, Dr. Vandervort, and Dr. Itani, are dedicated to supporting your recovery at every stage. If you need assistance or clarification, please don’t hesitate to call.
Suggested Soft Diet
- Liquids: Milk, smoothies, apple juice, ginger ale (no straws).
- Soft Foods: Applesauce, yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, pasta.
- Cold Treats: Pudding, Jell-O, custard, ice cream (no chips or nuts).
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Whether you’re considering dental implants, jaw surgery, or wisdom teeth removal, our skilled team is here to help. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward optimal oral health.