Healing & Recovery

• Do not be alarmed by changes in the appearance of the treated tissue. Gums may appear gray, red, blue, purple, or stringy. These are normal healing responses following laser treatment.
• Mild bleeding or spotting is normal during the first 24 hours.
• Rest and avoid strenuous activity for 5–7 days, as excessive activity may increase bleeding and delay healing.
• Swelling and bruising often peak around 72 hours after surgery. Bruising may appear blue, purple, green, yellow, or brown and can extend into the cheek or neck as it heals.

Protect the Surgical Site

• Do not touch, rub, or disturb the treated area with your fingers, tongue, or cheek.
• Avoid pulling your lip back to inspect the surgical site.
• Do not aggressively rinse, spit, or swish for the first 24–48 hours.

Oral Hygiene

• Do not brush the surgical area for 1 week.
• Use an extra-soft toothbrush to clean the teeth only, avoiding the gum tissue.
• Brush and floss all other teeth as usual.
• Rinse twice daily with Stance/Chlorohexedine (or as prescribed), morning and night.
• Do not rinse with water after using Stance/Chlorohexedine.
• During the first 24–48 hours, gently move the rinse around your mouth by tilting your head rather than swishing.
• Warm salt water rinses may also be used as directed.

Note: Stance/Chlorohexedine may temporarily stain teeth and tongue when used longer than one week. After one week, switch to an alcohol-free rinse such as Listerine Zero-Alcohol® unless otherwise instructed.

Swelling Control

• Apply an ice pack externally to the treated area for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off during the first 24 hours.
• Do not place ice inside the mouth.

Medications

• Take all prescribed medications exactly as directed.
• If antibiotics are prescribed, complete the entire course.
• If you develop hives, a rash, or signs of an allergic reaction, discontinue the medication, take Benadryl (if appropriate for you), and contact our office immediately.

Smoking & Vaping

• Avoid smoking and vaping for at least 7 days after surgery. Nicotine significantly slows healing and increases the risk of complications.

What You May Notice

• Teeth may feel sore or sensitive as the bone and supporting tissues heal.
• Your bite may feel different. If it feels uneven or “off,” contact our office promptly, as an adjustment may be needed.
• Spaces between teeth may become more noticeable as inflammation decreases and diseased tissue is removed. These spaces often improve as healing progresses.

Follow-Up Care

Keeping your scheduled post ops, periodontal maintenance appointments, and use of nightguard (if/when prescribed) are essential for long-term success. Regular follow-up care gives you the best opportunity for lasting results.

DIETARY GUIDELINES

A soft diet is recommended during the first week after surgery.

Day 1: Cold or Room-Temperature Foods

• Yogurt
• Cottage cheese
• Applesauce
• Pudding
• Jell-O®
• Plain ice cream
• Protein drinks
• Smoothies or milkshakes (without a straw)
• Blended foods

Day 2 and Beyond: Soft Foods

• Mashed potatoes
• Macaroni and cheese
• Soup
• Eggs
• Soft pasta
• Flaky fish
• Shredded meats
• Steamed vegetables
• Avocados
• Bananas
• Cheese
• Cream of wheat

Avoid

• Nuts, seeds, chia seeds, and flax seeds
• Strawberries and raspberries
• Chips, pretzels, and popcorn
• Hard or crusty breads

Important Reminders

• Avoid extremely hot foods and beverages.
• Avoid acidic or citrus foods that may irritate the surgical site.
• Chew on the opposite side of the mouth whenever possible.
• Do not use a straw until cleared by your doctor.
• Do not eat or drink while gauze is in place.

If you have questions at any time, please contact our office at (770) 772-0994. We are happy to help.