Pre-Operative Instructions for Periodontal Procedures

  1. Health & Medication Review

    Your complete medical history and medications must be reviewed before surgery.

    Inform us if you:

    • Have heart conditions, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, bleeding disorders, or autoimmune diseases.
    • Are taking blood thinners, immunosuppressants, or bisphosphonates (e.g., Fosamax).
    • Have received radiation therapy to the head or neck.
    • Have diabetes (Ask for your special instructions).

    Note: Preoperative clearance may be required from your primary care provider if you have complex medical conditions.

  2. Eating & Drinking

    • If you undergo IV sedation, do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery (8 hours without food is required).
    • If you have local anesthesia only, a light meal is allowed, unless told otherwise.
    • Avoid caffeinated or sugary drinks before surgery.

  3. Medications on Day of Surgery

    • Do not stop any prescribed medications unless directed by your doctor.
    • Take essential medications with a small sip of water (as advised).
    • Bring all current medications or a list with doses and times taken.
    • Antibiotic prophylaxis may be required in some cases — follow your doctor’s guidance.

  4. Smoking & Alcohol

    • Stop smoking or vaping at least 48–72 hours before and after surgery.
    • Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before and after your procedure.
    • Smoking impairs healing and drastically increases the risk of poor outcomes.

  5. Day of Surgery

    • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
    • Do not wear makeup, nail polish, jewelry, or contact lenses.
    • A responsible adult must drive and accompany you home if you’re being sedated.
    • Bring any dentures or partials if instructed.

  6. Postoperative Planning

    • Stock your kitchen with soft foods (e.g., yogurt, smoothies, soup, mashed potatoes).
    • Don’t plan any strenuous activities following your procedure for 3–5 days.

Instructions for Diabetic Patients

  • Monitor your blood glucose levels closely before and after surgery.
  • If you’re receiving IV sedation or general anesthesia, do not eat or drink after midnight, but bring your glucose monitor and medications with you.
  • Take your diabetes medications only if instructed by your provider.
  • Bring a list of all medications, including insulin types and doses.
  • Notify the surgical team immediately if your blood sugar is below 80 mg/dL or above 200 mg/dL on the morning of surgery.

Post-op healing may be slower for diabetic patients — strict blood sugar control is essential to reduce the risk of infection and implant failure.

Post-Operative Instructions

  1. Immediately After Surgery

    Mild bleeding and oozing are normal for the first 24–48 hours.

    • If bleeding continues, place gauze and apply gentle pressure for another 30 minutes.

  2. Pain Management

    • Take prescribed pain medications as directed.
    • Start pain medication before the numbness wears off.

  3. Swelling & Bruising

    • Apply ice packs to the outside of the face near the surgical area — 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off for the first 24–48 hours.
    • Swelling is normal and may peak on day 3–4.
    • Keep your head elevated, even during sleep, for 1–2 days.

  4. Oral Hygiene

    • Do not rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours.
    • Use prescribed mouth rinse every 12 hours (morning and evening).
    • Avoid brushing the surgical site for the first 10 days.
    • Resume brushing and flossing other areas of your mouth gently.

  5. Diet

    • Stick to a soft food diet (fork-tender) until directed by your doctor.
    • Examples: yogurt, smoothies, scrambled eggs, soup, mashed potatoes, applesauce, protein shakes, etc.
    • Avoid hot, crunchy, or hard foods.
    • Do not use a straw for 3 days — suction can disturb healing.
    • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids (no alcohol).

  6. Activity & Rest

    • Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 3–5 days.
    • Gradually return to normal activity as tolerated.

  7. Special Instructions for Diabetic Patients

    • Monitor your blood sugar closely during recovery.
    • Maintain a regular meal schedule to avoid hypoglycemia.
    • Follow your medication schedule and notify the office if blood sugar is difficult to control.

  8. Special Instructions for Elderly Patients

    • Watch for signs of dizziness or confusion, especially after sedation or while taking pain medication.
    • Ensure assistance is available at home for 24–48 hours.
    • Prevent falls by moving slowly and using support when walking.

  9. Smoking & Alcohol

    • Do not smoke or vape for at least 72 hours after surgery — longer is better.
    • Avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours, especially if taking pain medications.

  10. When to Call Us

    Call our office or seek immediate care if you experience:

    • Persistent or heavy bleeding that doesn’t stop
    • Severe pain not relieved by medication
    • Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
    • Signs of infection (pus, foul taste, swelling that worsens after 3 days)
    • Difficulty breathing or swallowing