alveloplasty

You have just had surgery to prepare your ridge to obtain the best possible base for the placement of your denture.
Bleeding: A small amount of bleeding is expected following this procedure. To control the bleeding, apply direct pressure by biting on a moistened gauze pad placed directly over the bleeding areas for 30 to 60 minutes. If bleeding continues, apply firm direct pressure with moistened tea bags for 30 to 60 additional minutes. Tea has tannic acid that helps to form a clot by constricting your blood vessels.
Dentures: If you have an immediate denture, some oozing of blood around the edges of the denture will occur. Follow the instructions above if bleeding is severe. Bleeding may occur one to two days following the surgery and blood tinged saliva is normal. If there are no bleeding concerns do not remove the denture(s) for 24 hours. You should have an appointment to see your general dentist within 24-48 hours after surgery to check your new denture and make necessary adjustments to relieve any sore spots that may occur.
Pain Control: To control pain, use the prescribed medication as directed and begin using before the numbness disappears. Once the severe pain has subsided in a couple of days, Tylenol or Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) may be used. If antibiotics were prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time, even if signs or symptoms of infection are gone.
Diet: Drink lots of fluids and eat nutritious soft foods (see enclosed diet sheet). Avoid hot liquids or foods.
Sutures: Your sutures will loosen within the tissue in about 7-10 days and may be removed with a soft toothbrush ran under hot water to soften the bristles and gently massaged over the loose sutures.
Swelling: Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling, apply an ice bag, plastic bag or towel filled with ice on the area outside of the surgical site. Apply ice continuously, as much as possible for the first 24 hours.
Rinsing: Begin warm salt water rinses (1 teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of warm water) on the first day of surgery. Rinse after meals and before bedtime to flush out particles of food and debris that may be lodged in the operated area. DO NOT SPIT!
If you are experiencing any problems or have any questions, please call Dr. Adams at (910)480-4890. Please try to call during normal business hours if possible; however, we have coverage after 5:00pm weekdays and 24 hours a day on the weekend by calling (910) 480-4890 and pressing option #3.