SOUTHERN WYOMING PERIODONTICS
Pre & Post-Operative Instructions
PRE & POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS
For a Healthy, Stress-Free Recovery
Post-Op Instructions
Dr. Shumaker
Just had a procedure at Southern Wyoming Periodontics? Dr. Shumaker has you covered! In this video, he walks you through everything you need to know for a smooth, stress-free recovery — from managing swelling and brushing tips to what foods to avoid and when to call us. Grab your instruction sheet and follow along for expert guidance straight from your doctor!
Post-Op Instructions
Dr. Allen
You did it—your procedure is done! Now let Dr. Allen guide you through the do’s and don’ts of recovery so you can heal like a pro. From managing swelling and sensitivity to what you should (and definitely shouldn’t) eat, this is your go-to guide for a smooth, pain-free recovery. Hit play and feel confident every step of the way—your smile is in good hands!
Post-Op Instructions
Dr. Sands
Wondering what to expect after your procedure with Dr. Sands at Southern Wyoming Periodontics? We’ve got you! In this video, Dr. Sands walks you through your post-op instructions step-by-step — from pain management and proper rinsing to brushing do’s and don’ts and tips for a quicker recovery. Follow along with your instruction sheet and feel confident in your healing process!
PRE-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS
Your Comfort Starts with Preparation
- Eat a normal breakfast or lunch on the day of surgery unless you are given specific instructions otherwise.
- Take all medications you would normally take as directed for other medical reasons. Be sure Dr. Shumaker, Dr. Allen, or Dr. Sands are aware of all medications you take, including aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamins, herbal supplements, and any blood thinners.
- Wear comfortable, open-collared, loose-waisted clothing to your surgery appointment.
- Please leave out contact lenses if you wear them.
- Prepare several cold packs at home by placing damp washcloths in small plastic bags and freezing them, or have small bags of frozen peas available.
- If you are taking aspirin, ibuprofen, blood thinners, or additional vitamin or herbal supplements, please advise Dr. Shumaker, Dr. Allen, or Dr. Sands. You may need to discontinue them 7–10 days prior to your surgery, but only if instructed by your doctor.
- Diabetic patients should eat a normal breakfast and take their normal medications or insulin on the day of the procedure unless directed otherwise by the doctors.
- Be prepared at home to eat a soft diet for 1–2 weeks after surgery. For suggestions for soft diet items, please see our Soft Diet Recipes page on our website.
- Patients receiving oral sedation or other comfort-related instructions should follow any additional guidance provided at their pre-operative consultation visit.
PRE-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS
Additional Preparation Guidelines
Following any additional Pre-Operative Instructions provided by our team will help ensure a safe, comfortable, and successful experience with your procedure.
- Please follow any food or drink instructions provided during your pre-operative consultation.
Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from your appointment if instructed by our team.
Take all prescription medications you normally take unless directed otherwise. Hold any over-the-counter medications or herbal supplements only if instructed by Dr. Shumaker, Dr. Allen, or Dr. Sands.
If you are diabetic, please make sure you have specific directions from Dr. Shumaker, Dr. Allen, or Dr. Sands regarding your medications and eating schedule.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
Leave contact lenses out if you wear them.
Prepare several cold packs at home, such as frozen peas or damp washcloths frozen in plastic bags.
Do not drive, operate machinery, sign legal documents, or make important decisions after your procedure if you have taken medication that may cause drowsiness or impair your ability to function normally.
Inform Dr. Shumaker, Dr. Allen, or Dr. Sands of any medications, supplements, or substances you have taken in the past month, including alcohol, cigarettes, recreational drugs, aspirin, birth control pills, and any prescribed or over-the-counter medications.
Do not take pain medications after your procedure except for those prescribed or approved by Dr. Shumaker, Dr. Allen, or Dr. Sands.
Do not drink alcohol for at least 24 hours before or after treatment, unless otherwise directed.
POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS
Recover Faster with Proper Aftercare
Day of Surgery
- Ice packs should be applied to your face over areas operated on, 10 on, 10 minutes off, to prevent pain and swelling. Good ice packs include small bags of frozen vegetables (such as frozen peas), or wet washcloths frozen in plastic bags.
- Melt ice chips in your mouth.
- Take your prescriptions.
Prescriptions
- Antibiotic, take the entire prescription as directed.
- Medication for the pain is to be taken when required for comfort. Do not drive, operate household or heavy machinery, or sign legal documents when taking a narcotic.
- A medicated mouth rinse is to be used as directed.
- If you react to any medications prescribed, discontinue use and contact, Dr. Shumaker, Dr. Allen, or Dr. Sands immediately.
After Packing Falls Off
- Saltwater rinse (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water), 2 x a day.
Brushing
- Brush and floss as you normally do, avoiding surgical sites and areas with packing material.
Packing
- Pink material protects wounds (may discolor).
- Packing needs to stay on for 2-3 days. It will fall off on its own. It is ok if it stays on longer.
- Never remove the packing yourself, (unless visibly loose).
- If packing falls off before 2-3 days, call us to have it replaced.
Bleeding
- The surgery site may ooze for several hours after the procedure.
- If bleeding is excessive soak a black tea bag (Lipton) with cold water and apply pressure to the area for 45-60 minutes.
- If bleeding persists, contact Dr. Shumaker, Dr. Sands, or Dr. Allen
Sinus Precautions (If you had sinus procedures)
- No nose blowing for two weeks
- DO NOT hold a sneeze in (open your mouth when you sneeze)
- Take all medications as prescribed by Dr. Shumaker, Dr. Allen, or Dr. Sands.