Post-Operative Medication Instructions for Your Colleyville, TX Oral Surgery
At Texas Oral Surgery Specialists in Colleyville, TX, Dr. Chris L. Tye, MD, DDS provides treatments in oral surgery. Our team believes that patients should have a full understanding of their procedure. To ensure you have a comfortable and successful recovery, we have compiled this list of post-operative medication instructions.
IMPORTANT: PLEASE READ INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE SURGERY APPOINTMENT
Antibiotics for Proper Healing
If you have been prescribed antibiotics, it is important to take them exactly as directed. They are necessary to prevent post-operative infections. We will often prescribe antibiotics ahead of time, and instruct you to take the first dose one hour prior to your procedure. As always, instructions regarding medications can vary for each patient. It is important to closely follow Dr. Tye’s recommendations.
Pain Medications: What You Should Know
Pain medication will be prescribed to help you address post-surgical discomfort. We recommend that you take a dose approximately two hours after your procedure is over, and continue every four to six hours for the first two days. These pain medications can be alternated with over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen or naproxen for maximum results. After the first 48 hours, the prescribed pain medication can be tapered as needed, while continuing the over-the-counter medications as long as they are necessary.
If you are still experiencing severe, throbbing pain after taking your prescribed medications, call our office so we can give you further instructions. Please note that most prescription pain medications cannot be phoned into the pharmacy due to federal regulation.
Steroid Medication
Occasionally, we may prescribe Prednisone or a Medrol Dose Pack. These steroids are useful in reducing facial swelling. Typically, we will instruct you to take the first dose the night before your procedure, then continue the doses as directed. As always, follow Dr. Tye’s specific instructions in regard to your medications.
Anti-Nausea Medication
If you commonly experience nausea due to pain medication, we can prescribe Phenergan or Zofran to help alleviate your symptoms. For optimal results, this medication should be taken with food approximately one hour before you take your pain medication.
Peridex Oral Rinse
You may receive a prescription for Peridex, an effective antibacterial mouth rinse used to prevent infections and dry sockets. Typically, we recommend gently rinsing with Peridex approximately 24 hours following your procedure. Use twice per day until you can resume normal brushing and flossing.
Arnica Montana
An optional homeopathic remedy, arnica montana can be taken to reduce swelling and bruising. Typically, we recommend it for all patients, with the exception of those currently taking blood thinners. Dissolve four homeopathic tablets under your tongue two times a day. This should be commenced one day prior to your surgery.
Sedation Dentistry
If you are undergoing IV sedation, any medications taken within six hours before your surgery must be taken with small sips of water only. If steroid medications were prescribed, do not take them the morning of your procedure. They are to be used after your surgery.
In Case of Emergency
Any medication can cause side effects or allergies. If you have difficulty breathing, develop a rash, or experience swelling of the tongue or throat, discontinue all medications and notify your doctor immediately.
Contact Your Grapevine Oral Surgeon
Click here to review pre-operative medication instructions. If you have any additional questions, concerns – or in case of an emergency – please contact us online or call us at (817) 552-3223. Dr. Tye has provided high-quality care for over twenty-five years. We are proud to serve Colleyville, TX and the outlying areas of Keller, Southlake, Euless, and Bedford. Thank you for trusting our office with your treatment. We look forward to working with you.