Instructions Following Osseous Surgery

Osseous surgery, also known as pocket reduction surgery, is a procedure aimed at treating periodontitis after other non-surgical treatments have failed to restore periodontal health.

• After your oral surgery, you may experience discomfort, bleeding, or swelling. Avoid touching the treated area and refrain from pulling on your lip to check the surgery site.
• Refrain from vigorous rinsing, spitting, or using a straw for drinking. To help control initial bleeding, press a gauze pad against the treated area for half an hour. If bleeding doesn’t subside within the first day, contact our office for advice.
•  Take all prescribed medications and mouth rinses exactly as instructed.
• Start salt water rinses 24 hours after the procedure, repeating them four to five times daily, especially after eating.
• After 24 hours, begin brushing your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Take care when brushing around the treated area.
• If sutures are used, they will generally dissolve by themselves over time.
• Manage swelling and bruising by applying a cold compress next to your face at the surgery site. Apply the compress for 20 minutes on and off. After 36 hours, replace cold with moist heat to further reduce swelling, applying it in 15-minute intervals.
• Be sure to stay hydrated and avoid spicy, hard, or crunchy foods. Also, abstain from smoking and drinking alcohol, particularly when taking prescription pain relief or antibiotics.
• Limit physical activities shortly after your surgery to allow a smoother recovery.