For patients
Information before surgery, on the day, and during recovery.
Your first visit
What the consultation will cover
- Review your medical and dental history.
- Discuss the reason for your visit and understand your concerns.
- Address any questions you may have about your condition or treatment.
- Perform a thorough clinical examination.
- Review any existing X-rays or imaging and arrange additional investigations if required, such as 3D jaw scans.
- Explain the findings and provide you with a clear diagnosis.
- Work with you to develop a tailor-made treatment plan that suits your individual needs and goals.
- Provide transparent information about the proposed procedure, including expected outcomes, potential risks, recovery, and associated fees. Written information will also be provided for your reference.
- Liaise with your regular dentist, dental specialists, GP, or other medical specialists when required to ensure your treatment is planned and delivered safely.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
To help your first visit run smoothly, please bring:
- Your referral letter from your dentist or doctor (if applicable).
- Referrals are not mandatory, you can also contact us directly for consultation.
- Your health fund details
- A list of your current medications and relevant medical history.
- Any recent X-rays, scans, or other relevant imaging.
If you are in pain and would like treatment as soon as possible, it may be possible to proceed with treatment on the same day as your consultation, provided it is safe to do so after review.
Post-Operative Care Instructions
Recovery after treatment
You will be given advice about what to expect after your procedure and how to look after the area during recovery.
The information below provides general post-operative advice. More detailed instructions, together with any prescribed medications, will be provided in writing on the day of your procedure and tailored to your treatment.
If you have any questions or concerns during recovery, please contact the practice.
More detailed instructions, medications, and post-operative care packs will be provided in writing on the day of your procedure and tailored to your specific treatment.
Post-operative care guidance
What to Expect
It is normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, bruising, and minor bleeding following oral surgery.
- Minor oozing from the surgical site may occur for up to 12-24 hours.
- Swelling often reaches its peak 48-72 hours following procedure, before gradually improving.
- Bruising below the lip, chin or neck may occur and can take up to ten days to resolve.
- Temporary jaw stiffness is common and may persist for several days after surgery.
- We use dissolving stitches, which usually disappear within 1-2 weeks.
Looking After Yourself
Rest and Recovery
- Rest on the day of surgery and avoid strenuous physical activity for at least 48 hours.
- If you have had sedation or a general anaesthetic, follow the instructions provided by your surgeon and anaesthetist.
- Take care not to bite your cheek, lip, or tongue while the area remains numb.
Managing Bleeding and Swelling
- A small amount of bleeding or blood-stained saliva is normal after surgery.
- Apply firm pressure with the gauze provided if bleeding continues.
- Use ice packs intermittently (15-20 minutes on, 15-20 minutes off) during the first 24 hours to help reduce swelling.
- Avoid spitting, vigorous rinsing, and drinking through straws on the day of surgery, as this may disturb healing.
Pain Management
- Some discomfort is expected for several days following surgery.
- Take pain relief exactly as directed by Dr Ordinez and your anaesthetist.
- For best results, begin your pain medication before the local anaesthetic has completely worn off.
Eating and Drinking
- Avoid hot food and drinks until the numbness has resolved.
- Choose soft foods such as yoghurt, smoothies, porridge, eggs, soups, and pasta during the initial healing period.
- Gradually return to your normal diet as comfort allows.
- Drink plenty of fluids and remain well hydrated.
Oral Hygiene
- Resume brushing your teeth the day after surgery, avoiding the surgical site initially.
- Begin gentle warm salt-water rinses 24 hours after surgery, particularly after meals.
- Use any prescribed mouth rinses or medications as instructed by Dr Ordinez.
Smoking and Alcohol
- Avoid smoking, vaping, and alcohol following surgery, as these can delay healing and increase the risk of complications such as dry socket.
Follow-Up Care
A review appointment may be arranged to monitor your healing and ensure your recovery is progressing as expected. Please attend any scheduled follow-up appointments.
When to Contact Us
Please contact our clinic if you experience:
- Excessive bleeding that does not settle despite applying pressure.
- Severe or worsening pain after the first few days.
- Increasing swelling after 3-4 days.
- Fever, chills, or signs of infection.
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
- Persistent numbness or any other concerns regarding your recovery.
Our team is committed to supporting you throughout your recovery. If you have any questions or concerns following your procedure, please do not hesitate to contact us at any time during your recovery process.