Advice after cosmetic reconstruction

We recommend that you follow the care indicated for optimal recovery. Please note that mild discomfort and swelling are normal after surgery.

Day of surgery

• Slightly reddish-colored saliva and bloody discharge are normal after operations of this type.
• Keep the compresses in your mouth for an hour or two, maintaining firm pressure, and change them every half-hour as needed.
• Apply ice to the cheek at regular intervals (20 minutes of ice every hour).
• If you are bleeding, take a lightly moistened gauze pad or tea bag and bite down on it for 20 minutes.

Avoid

• Do not eat anything until the bleeding has stopped.
• Don't eat hard foods.
• Avoid rinsing your mouth or spitting.
• Avoid drinking through a straw.
• Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol.
• Don't exercise intensely. Take a rest.

Pain

• If the pain becomes too much to bear, take your prescribed medication.

Diet

• Eat only soft foods or lukewarm liquids.

From next day to full recovery

• Rinse your mouth three times a day with warm water and salt (2 ml or 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 250 ml or 1 cup of water).
• Brush and floss daily to remove plaque and ensure better long-term results. Avoid brushing the sensitive area for the first 72 hours.
• Avoid hard foods (nuts, candy, ice cream).
• Smoke, coffee, red wine and tea can stain your teeth.
• If you play sports, ask for a custom-made mouthguard.
• You may experience pronunciation difficulties and increased saliva. This should settle down within a week.
• Bruises may appear on the skin. These will disappear after five to seven days.
• You may have difficulty opening your mouth. This should subside after four to five days.
• If, after three days, the pain increases rather than decreases, call us.

Important to know

The brain will take a few days or weeks to recognize the new position or thickness of the teeth. It's therefore normal to allow a certain amount of time for the mouth to close properly.

If after several weeks the problem persists, call Dr Elias Janho: 514.522.3233