A labial/lingual frenectomy of the mouth is a surgical procedure. An incision must be made in tissue and removed. Thus, swelling and discomfort are to be expected.
- Do not rinse your mouth for 24 hours after surgery. Then, rinse your mouth vigorously with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt to glass of warm water) especially after meals ~ 4 to 5 times daily. Do not brush your teeth for 24 hours after surgery. Do not spit for 24 hours after surgery.
- Do not smoke for 24 hours after surgery.
- Do not be alarmed by blood tinged saliva. If you have bleeding, bite hard on a 2×2 gauze sponge for 30 minutes. Pressure is the best way to control bleeding.
- Apply an ice pack to the side(s) of your face operated on, Do this as long as swelling or pain persists.
- Do not pull lip out to expose surgical site.
- Do not use a straw for 24 hours after surgery.
- Eat a soft food diet for 24 hours after surgery (soup, scrambled eggs, pasta, pasta, pancakes, pudding, jello, applesauce, yogurt, macaroni & cheese, mashed potatoes, sherbet, water ice, fruit cocktail). Return to normal diet after 24 hours because the exercise of chewing helps to reduce stiffness and swelling.
- Take any medication dispensed to you from this office as directed. If you have prescriptions, get them filled and take as directed.
- Complications such as abnormal bleeding, pain, or swelling; and it stitches fallout during the first 24 hours after surgery, please contact our office.