A local anaesthetic is often used during the surgery. This may mean that your mouth feels numb when you wake up and for a few hours after the operation / procedure. Be careful not to chew or burn your lips whilst they are numb

First 24 hours:

  • Please avoid:
    • Exercise / exertion
    • Gargling or swilling drink around the mouth
    • Drinking from straws
    • Smoking as this can cause bleeding
  • Keep head up (45 degrees)
  • Do not hold anything hot against the outside of the face
  • Do not eat / drink anything hot
  • Soft diet is recommended: Mash potatoes, jelly, scrambled egg, banana, macaroni cheese, soft cooked vegetables, warm soup
  • Foods that are not recommended: Crisps, Chips, Rice, Couscous, Biscuits, nuts

After 24 hours:

  • Mouthwash as directed
    • Corsodyl Mouthwash (Use after every meal for 7 – 10 days)
    • Salt water mouthwash (Use regularly throughout the day and after meals if not using Corsodyl)
      • Mix 1 teaspoon of salt or bicarbonate of Soda in a mug of hot water- then leave to cool.
      • Take a large mouthful and tilt head to the side so the warm solution floors the inflamed area
      • Hold for 1 minute before spitting out
  • Use a Soft toothbrush to teeth: Avoid gum sockets

Pain Relief:

  • Please use usual analgesia such as Paracetamol & Ibuprofen
  • More effective if taken on a regular basis (before the pain starts) over the next 2 – 3 days

What to do if bleeding occurs:

Bite Pack (Provided on discharge)

  • Wet the bite pack (provided on discharge) with warm water
  • Bite down on the damp bite pack for 20 minutes, sitting in an upright position.
  • Remove bite pack gently
  • Repeat if necessary.
  • If the bleeding does not stop call one of the contact numbers above

Post Anaesthetic

No alcohol, driving, use of electricals/ machinery, caring for young children alone or signing legal documents – first 48 hours

Stitches

These are absorbable

Ref: 04/21/50
Review: 07/23