Dr. Segelnick and Dr. Mantzikos are always concerned about their patients after treatment.
They are always available, and can be reached in cases of emergency at 917-964-3132 or 917-833-0295.
For your convenience we have provided copies of the most common post operative instructions below:
Instructions following periodontal surgery
1. Do NOT rinse today. AVOID extremely hot and cold foods and liquids.
2. The dressing over the treated area is for your protection. Leave it in
place. Do not be concerned if small pieces of the dressing come off.
IF the dressing comes off AND the exposed gum surface is
sensitive then call the office. Return for a follow up exam as
indicated, probably within a week or two to remove the dressing and the
sutures.
3. Mild discomfort can be controlled with two Tylenol (or similar tablets) every
3 to 4 hours. Aspirin should NOT be used unless directed. If a
PAIN RELIEVER had been prescribed, take only when necessary. If an
ANTIBIOTIC has been prescribed, take ALL the medication to help
prevent infection.
4. NOTE: ANTIBIOTICS MAY INACTIVATE BIRTH CONTROL PILLS.
5. Avoid alcoholic beverages during the postoperative period, especially if you
take medication. You should refrain from smoking.
6. To minimize swelling which may occur, apply an ICE PACK on your face
next to the treated area. Leave the ice in place for ten minutes and
then remove it for ten minutes. Repeat this routine, ice pack on for 10
minutes, off for 10 minutes, for at least two hours. Do not use the ice
pack (or applications of heat after 24 hours following surgery). If the
swelling is severe, and/or you feel feverish, please call the office.
7. Avoid excessive exertion (jogging, swimming, tennis, etc.) for the next week.
8. BRUSH and FLOSS the teeth well, BUT NOT IN THE TREATED AREA.
Avoid excessive rinsing which may dislodge the dressing.
9. Eat on the OPPOSITE side of the surgery. Good foods include: milk,
yogurt, fish, eggs, soup, cheese, chopped meat, baby foods, cooked
cereal, cooked vegetables, Jell-O, and soft fruits. Avoid foods that are
hard, sharp, have seeds, are spicy or very hot. Please refrain from
eating and drinking until the local anesthetic has worn off. BE
CAREFUL NOT TO BITE YOUR LIPS OR TONGUE WHILE THEY ARE STILL NUMB.
10. If bleeding occurs – DO NOT RINSE! Moisten a gauze pad or fresh tea
bag with warm water. Place it over the area and hold it firmly in place
for 10-20 minutes, without interruption. Repeat if necessary.
Care of the mouth after extraction
1. Do not rinse mouth today. Tomorrow, rinse mouth gently every 3 to 4 hours
(especially after meals) using ¼ teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm
water. Continue rinses for several days.
2. Following extractions, some bleeding is to be expected. If persistent
bleeding occurs, place gauze pads over bleeding areas and bite down
firmly for one half hour. Repeat if necessary.
3. An ice pack or chopped ice wrapped in a towel should be applied to
operated area. Half hour on, half hour off for 4-5 hours.
4. For mild to average pain, use any non aspirin type of medication you
pref