ANTIBIOTICS must be taken as directed, until the course is completed.

PAIN TABLETS should be taken on a REGULAR basis as prescribed in order to minimise your discomfort.

WARM SALT WATER MOUTH RINSES are essential 3-4 times daily, commencing the day after the operation and continued for 5-7 days. Use 1 level teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.

MEDICATED MOUTHWASHES are often prescribed to be used for up to 2 weeks.

Some swelling, pain and bruising after surgery is normal. It reaches a maximum on the 3rd to 4th day and may be associated with stiffness of the jaw. If the pain, bleeding or swelling increases after 4-5 days, this may indicate an infection and you will need to contact the surgery as soon as possible.

Occasional temporary numbness of the lip or cheek may result as the surgical site may be close to nerves.

Sleep with your head and back raised, as it will reduce swelling. Place an ice-pack (ice cubes in a towel) for 10 minutes on the cheek over the surgical site, as soon as you get home. This may be repeated after 2-3 hours. If bleeding starts, one can place a damp folded teabag over the surgical site for 10 minutes, under constant biting pressure.

STITCHES ARE OF THE DISSOLVING TYPE unless you have been informed otherwise. They last for 2-3 weeks, but do not be alarmed if they come out earlier.

If you have any further problems, please do not hesitate to contact me.