For Exposure

The following information will help you be prepared for your upcoming tooth exposure.

Pre-Surgical Instructions

Please have your prescriptions filled prior to your surgical date.

Eat before your surgery appointment; it helps the anesthetic to be more effective. Have a normal breakfast or normal lunch.  Taking sedative – Eating must be three hours prior to your appointment.  Start taking Halcion (sedative), two hours prior to your appointment.

Do not take any aspirin products for three days prior to your appointment. If needed, Tylenol or Advil (ibuprofen) may be taken.

Post-surgical instructions

The day of treatment Dr. Robinson will expose your tooth so that your orthodontist can begin to pull it into proper position.  He will attach a bracket with a small chain to your tooth; the chain will then be tied to your arch wire with an elastic band.

Medications

Please take your medications as directed. Pain medications should not be taken with any alcohol or when operating a vehicle. Do not take any pain medications on an empty stomach. If you develop a rash, itching, or other unusual reactions, stop taking the medication and promptly call our office.

You may take up to 4 Advil every 4 hours with or without your pain medication. It will act as an anti-inflammatory.

The following day you may be a bit tired or drowsy.  This is normal.  Usually by the next day you can resume your normal activities.

Swelling

Immediately following surgery, an ice pack may be applied to your face over the surgical area. Alternate 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off throughout the entire day of the surgery.

Bleeding

Expect minimal bleeding from the surgery site. Small amounts of blood may color your saliva the first few hours after surgery. To stop bleeding place ice-cold water in your mouth and gently swish around or hold it in for a few minutes. If bleeding or oozing persists from the roof of the mouth, pressure can be applied with the thumb for 15 minutes and the bleeding should stop. 

Hygiene

Your normal hygiene routine will be interrupted for the week after your surgery. Do not brush or floss the surgery site, leave it alone. You may brush and floss the teeth not involved in the surgery.

The sutures we place will dissolve and fall out on their own within 3-5 days.

Diet

Use care when eating, softer foods are strongly recommended for the first 5-7 days after the surgery. Do not eat foods that require heavy pressure for chewing. Please avoid foods that are hard, sticky, or spicy. Colder and lukewarm foods are best 24 hours after the procedure. Do not drink through a straw for at least 2 days.

Acceptable foods are:
Yogurt, eggs, soups, smoothies, chicken, pasta, rice, oatmeal, mashed potatoes, cheese, ground beef, cottage cheese, ice cream, pudding, juices and lots of fluids.

Foods to avoid:
Popcorn, nuts, seeds, hard candies, apples, crackers, chips, and hard breads.

If you need to get a hold of us and we are not in the office you may call Dr. Robinson on his cell phone. Please do not hesitate to call with any questions.  Office Steven D. Robinson, DDS Phone Number 775-827-3302, Cell: (775) 232-6345