Instructions Following Crown Lengthening
- Experiencing some pain, swelling, bleeding, and discharge is normal after oral surgery. Avoid pulling on your lip to check the surgical site, and do not touch the area with your tongue or fingers.
- Refrain from forcefully rinsing, spitting, or drinking through a straw. To help control bleeding, bite down on a gauze pad placed directly over the wound for 30 minutes. It is normal to have some bleeding during the first 24 hours. If the bleeding does not subside, please contact our office.
- Make sure to take all prescribed medications, including any mouth rinses, as directed.
- After the first 24 hours, continue your normal brushing routine in untreated areas. For treated areas, use a soft manual toothbrush but avoid flossing for the first week. Do not use undiluted mouthwash, salt water, or peroxide rinses during this time.
- Swelling and bruising are common and may increase within two to three days after the surgery. Applying a cold compress near the surgical area can help reduce swelling.
- If you are using an ice pack, never apply ice directly to your skin; always place a cloth between the ice and your skin. Use the cold compress for up to 20 minutes on, then at least 20 minutes off, as needed. After 24 hours, cold compresses will no longer be effective for swelling. At this point, using moist heat on the sides of the face can help reduce any remaining swelling.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid spicy or acidic foods, as well as hard or crunchy foods like chips, nuts, and tacos. Refrain from using tobacco and avoid alcohol, especially if you are taking pain medication or antibiotics.
- Limit physical activities immediately after surgery and avoid any strenuous exercise for the next 2-3 days.