Avoid rinsing your mouth or spitting today. Beginning tomorrow you may rinse with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt to 1 cup warm water) every 2 to 3 hours for the first couple of days, then rinse after meals and at bedtime for the next two weeks. If you have been prescribed Peridex rinse, use as directed on the bottle. You may begin brushing your teeth today, staying away from the surgical site for the first few days.

• Please do not wear your dentures or partial until your doctor gives you permission to do so.

• You may resume a regular diet as soon as you feel comfortable.

• In some cases, swelling may occur and usually reaches its peak in 48 -72 hours (2-3 days). Apply an ice bag to the side of the face 15 minutes on then 15 minutes off as often as possible for the first 48 hours (2 days). Then change to a heating pad or hot water bottle, 15 minutes on then 15 minutes off until swelling has receded.

• You may have mild discomfort following surgery.

• Take the prescribed medication as directed with food.