ORAL HYGIENE
It is very important to keep your mouth clean, especially if you have wounds inside the mouth that are healing. Rinse with warm salt water after each meal or snack — a syringe with a curved plastic tip helps to squirt water into hard-toreach areas. Brush thoroughly after meals and before bed with a soft toothbrush.
CARE OF SKIN INCISIONS
Depending on the type of surgery, it may have been necessary to make an incision on your skin or to repair lacerations or wounds associated with your injury. Care of these wounds is important to prevent infection and minimize scarring. Keep wounds covered with a dressing. Once the stitches are removed, keep the wound clean by gently washing twice a day and applying a topical antibiotic ointment (Bacitracin, etc.).
WIRES AND RUBBER BANDS
Do not cut, remove, bend, or twist wires! If wires or braces begin to irritate cheeks or lips, a small piece of wax can be placed over these sharp areas temporarily.
Loose wires may compromise or delay healing or result in fracture healing improperly. Please call the office if you can open your mouth or move your jaw!
If you need to cough, sneeze, or yawn, use your hand to support below your chin to avoid the tendency to try to open your mouth.
