After Expose and Bond

Bleeding

Remove the gauze pack after 1 hour. Slight bleeding is expected. If bleeding is excessive, place a moistened, folded gauze pad or a moistened tea bag over the wound and bite firmly for 30 minutes with constant pressure. Assume a semi-upright position using a couple of pillows. Do not spit, use straws, smoke, or brush your teeth for the first 24 hours. Spitting or sucking causes bleeding to continue. Depending on your exact surgery, you may have packing in place over the impacted tooth site. This helps keep tissue from growing over the tooth and reduces pain and bleeding. It may fall out after several days or your orthodontist or dentist will remove it on your next visit.

Pain

Take your medications as directed on the package. If you develop hives or a rash, discontinue all medications and contact our office. Do not drive or operate mechanical equipment after taking prescription pain medication.

Swelling

Apply an ice pack on the face near the area where surgery was done upon returning home and change it frequently. Continue this on and off for 24–48 hours. Peak swelling should occur between the second and third day after surgery and then diminish slowly.

Diet

A liquid to soft food diet is recommended the day of surgery. Avoid using straws, chewing over the surgical area, and extremely hot foods and foods with sharp edges (chips, pretzels, etc.) for a few days. Gradually resume your normal diet as tolerated.

Oral Hygiene

The day following surgery, the mouth may be rinsed gently with a lukewarm salt water solution (a ½ teaspoon of salt per half glass of lukewarm water) or prescribed mouthwash after each meal and at bedtime. The teeth should be brushed, but avoid the site of surgery for several days. Do not use hydrogen peroxide rinses or an irrigation device like a Waterpik® for at least 1 week.

Rest

Avoid over fatigue and get adequate rest. Avoiding sports, exercise, and strenuous activity for at least 2–3 days is generally recommended.

Dental Care

It is usually best to avoid routine or elective dental care for approximately 2 weeks after surgery unless your doctor has advised otherwise.

Post-Op Visits

If you have been given an appointment for post-operative surgical care, please return to our office as scheduled. Generally, an appointment with your orthodontic treatment provider should be arranged 2-3 after the procedure. If you are experiencing problems or have questions, we can usually arrange a post-operative visit on short notice.