1215 W. Rio Salado Pkwy, Suite 113, Tempe, AZ 85281
Patient Information
Online Payments
We strive to make your experience at Oral & Facial Surgeons of Arizona as pleasant and convenient as possible. That's why we are excited to offer you the option to pay for your treatment securely online! Just click the button below and enter your payment details.
Learn more about:
Financing Treatment with CareCredit®
Our team at Oral & Facial Surgeons of Arizona is dedicated to ensuring that all patients have access to high-quality care without financial concerns. We accept various forms of payment, including financing plans through CareCredit®. CareCredit® offers low- to no-interest payment plans for qualified applicants who prefer to pay for their treatment in installments. The application process is quick and can be completed online in just a few minutes.
Health History Data
To make your first visit at Oral & Facial Surgeons of Arizona go smoothly, please go to our Patient Registration page, select an office, and complete the patient registration form, including the Health History section.
Pre-Op
Instructions
- Do not eat or drink anything for 8 hours before your surgery. If you take daily medications that have been approved by your surgeon, you may take them with a small sip of water only.
- Avoid alcohol and illegal substances for 48 hours before your procedure.
- You must have someone (such as a parent, friend, or relative) with you when you arrive for your procedure to drive you home afterwards. This person must stay in the waiting room for the entire procedure, and if they need to leave, they must check in at the front desk first.
- Make sure someone is available to take care of you when you get home after surgery.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing with short sleeves and remove all jewelry before the appointment.
- Remove nail polish and contact lenses before surgery, and tie back long hair away from your face.
- Have soft foods ready for nourishment after surgery.
Instructions for Care Prior to Anesthesia
Before your surgical appointment, refrain from eating or drinking anything (including water) for eight hours. Avoid smoking for at least 12 hours before surgery, or better yet, quit smoking altogether. Make sure to have a responsible adult accompany you on the day of your surgery, who will stay in the office during the procedure and drive you home afterward. For your safety, do not drive or operate machinery for 24 hours after anesthesia. Wear loose-fitting clothes with sleeves that can be rolled up past the elbow and low-heeled shoes. Remove contact lenses, jewelry, and dentures before surgery. Avoid wearing lipstick, excessive makeup, or nail polish to your appointment. If you are feeling unwell with a cold, sore throat, or stomach/bowel issues, please inform the office. If you take regular oral medications, consult with your oral surgeon before your surgery date for guidance.
Aftercare for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Having your impacted wisdom teeth removed is a significant surgical procedure. It is crucial that you adhere to these post-operative care instructions to prevent unnecessary pain and complications such as infection and swelling.
After Surgery, Right Away
- Keep the gauze pad on the surgical area for 30 minutes, then remove and dispose of it.
- Rinse your mouth gently and avoid touching the wound to prevent dislodging the blood clot.
- Take your pain medication when you start feeling discomfort after the local anesthetic wears off.
- Rest on the day of surgery and resume normal activities when you feel ready.
- Use ice packs on your face for the first 36 hours after wisdom tooth removal, then switch to moist heat to reduce swelling.
How to Address Bleeding, Swelling, or Pain
After surgery, it is normal to experience bleeding, swelling, and pain. To control bleeding, rinse or wipe away any old clots, place a gauze pad over the surgical site, and bite down firmly for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues, bite on a moistened tea bag for 30 minutes. Remember to sit upright, avoid exercise, and remain calm. If bleeding persists, contact us for further instructions.
Swelling is common after surgery and may increase until the second or third day. Use ice packs and moist heat as directed to help reduce swelling.
For pain relief, you can take Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol every three to four hours, or Motrin or Advil every three to four hours. If you have severe pain, take your prescribed medication as directed. Do not drive or operate machinery while taking prescription pain medication. If pain persists, contact our office for further assistance.
Care Instructions Following Dental Implant Surgery
After undergoing dental implant surgery, it is crucial to refrain from disturbing the wound in order to facilitate proper healing. It is advised to avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the wound on the day of the surgery, and to diligently follow the post-operative care instructions provided.
Post-Op for Dental Implants
Instructions for After Dental Implant Surgery
Upon returning home, change the gauze provided in your postoperative packet. Place folded gauze on the surgical area and close your mouth firmly to apply pressure. Change the gauze every 30 minutes until bleeding is controlled (usually after 4-5 changes). Remove gauze to drink and replace with clean gauze. Some oozing may occur for 24-48 hours. If bleeding continues, use a moist tea bag for 30 minutes. If bleeding is excessive, contact the office.
Swelling and Ice
Expect some swelling and discomfort after surgery. Apply ice packs to the face over the surgical site for 20 minutes, then remove for 20 minutes. Repeat as needed for the first 24-36 hours. Keep your head elevated while sleeping. Swelling typically peaks 48-78 hours after surgery and resolves within 7-10 days.
Jaw Stiffness
If your jaw muscles feel stiff, apply a warm, moist towel to the affected area.
Diet
Start with cool liquids and avoid hot drinks until numbness wears off. Stay hydrated and avoid chewing over the implant sites. Choose soft foods like soups, Jello, mashed potatoes, and yogurt. Avoid hard and chewy foods.
Numbness and Discomfort
Numbness may last 6-10 hours post-surgery due to local anesthetic.
Fever
A slight temperature increase for 24-48 hours is normal. Contact the office if it persists.
Oral Hygiene
Avoid disturbing the wound and follow any prescribed mouth rinse instructions. Keep your mouth clean during healing.
Prosthesis Care
Follow specific instructions from your surgeon regarding wearing prostheses post-surgery. Clean and adjust as needed.
Medications
Take prescribed medications as directed. Use alternative birth control if on oral contraceptives and taking antibiotics. Contact the office if pain persists or worsens after the third day.
Smoking
Avoid smoking during healing, as it can delay the process and worsen bleeding.
Instructions for Caring for Your Mouth After Having a Tooth Extracted
Following a tooth extraction, the healing process begins with the formation of a blood clot and cessation of bleeding. Your role in this process is crucial, so please carefully adhere to the post-operative care instructions provided below:
Post-Op for Extractions
GAUZE PACKS: Remember to remove loose gauze packs from your mouth 45 minutes after the procedure.
ORAL HYGIENE: Make sure to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day. Use a soft bristled brush to avoid injuring the tissue in your mouth. After extraction, gently clean the teeth next to the healing socket for 2 days, being careful to avoid the surgical area.
MOUTHWASH AND/OR RINSING: Do not rinse for the first 24 hours. After that, rinse gently with warm diluted salt water or the prescribed oral rinse. If you were given a syringe for tooth socket irrigation, follow the included instructions (do not use until after 1 week).
ICE PACK OR BAG / HEAT: Use an ice bag over the operated area for the first 48 hours after surgery. Apply for 20 minutes and remove for 20 minutes, repeating as needed. Elevate your head with pillows when lying down to reduce swelling, bleeding, and discomfort. After 4 days, heat can be applied as needed.
PAIN: Your doctor may recommend Ibuprofen to help with discomfort. If prescribed pain medication causes nausea, switch to Tylenol or Ibuprofen. Do not drive while taking prescribed pain medication. If pain persists or worsens after the fifth day, contact the office.
BLEEDING: Some bleeding is normal after tooth extraction. If bleeding seems excessive, rinse with cold water, apply pressure with gauze, and if needed, use a moist tea bag. If bleeding continues, contact the office.
SUTURES (STITCHES): Sutures typically dissolve or fall out within 5-14 days. Some cases may not require sutures.
SWELLING: Swelling is expected after extensive surgery and should peak at 48 hours, resolving within 7 days. Contact the office if swelling persists.
NUMBNESS: Numbness in the lower lip and tongue is common after lower jaw surgery and usually temporary.
MEDICATIONS: Take all prescribed medications as directed. Antibiotics may be given to prevent infection. Women using oral contraceptives should use alternative birth control during and after antibiotics.
REST AND NOURISHMENT: Stay hydrated with liquids and start with soft foods like dairy products and soft vegetables.
NAUSEA: Nausea may be caused by anesthesia or pain medication. Discontinue medication if needed and stick to clear liquids.
DISCOLORATION: Skin discoloration may occur due to bleeding into tissues and should fade within a few days.
LIMITED MOUTH OPENING: It is normal to have limited mouth opening for 2 weeks after surgery. Using a heating pad on the jaw may help with healing.
After undergoing Orthognathic (Reconstructive Jaw) Surgery.
Your active participation is crucial in your healing journey. After undergoing corrective jaw surgery, it is essential to diligently adhere to the post-operative guidelines provided by your surgeon. Here are some key tips you will be given:
After Surgery, the Initial 24 Hours Are Crucial
- Follow medication instructions carefully.
- Elevate your head and apply ice to reduce swelling.
- Stay hydrated by drinking at least 64 ounces of water per day.
- Expect minor bleeding and limited jaw mobility after surgery.
- Use Peridex mouth rinse and brush teeth twice a day.
- Avoid blowing your nose or sneezing through your nose after upper jaw surgery.
After the Surgery, the First Week
- Medications: Take 600 mg of ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®) every six to eight hours to help with pain and swelling. If needed, you can also take prescription pain relief at least one hour after ibuprofen. Avoid alcohol while taking these medications and follow all instructions for any other prescribed medications.
- Swelling: Expect swelling to peak from the third to fifth day after surgery and gradually decrease. To reduce swelling in the first 48 hours, use a cold pack wrapped in a towel on your face for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Do not apply heat, as it can worsen swelling.
- Diet: Stick to a full liquid diet for the first week after surgery, including milkshakes, smoothies, non-acidic juices, Jell-O, and blenderized foods. Avoid alcohol, carbonated drinks, and very sugary fluids.
- Oral hygiene: Remove elastics for hygiene, but replace them as instructed. Rinse your mouth with Peridex mouth rinse and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth and gums. Avoid mouth rinses with alcohol and use warm salt water rinses for comfort.
- Smoking: Do not smoke, as it can slow healing and increase the risk of infection.
- Activity: Avoid over-exertion in the first week after surgery, but you can resume light housework and non-strenuous activities. Gradually increase your activity level to help with recovery.
- Follow-up: Schedule a follow-up visit with your surgeon one week after surgery. Follow all post-operative instructions for the next five weeks, and by the sixth week, you can resume a regular diet as directed by your surgeon.
After Bone Grafting
After your bone grafting procedure, it is crucial that you adhere to a few straightforward post-operative instructions.
Post-Op Bone Grafting
Socket Grafting and Bone Preservation
Procedures to repair and grow new bone, previously unheard of, are now common in dental surgical care. Bone grafts are necessary when a part of the jaw is missing, such as loss surrounding roots of teeth or following tooth extraction or trauma. Dental alveolar bone, which holds teeth in place, can begin to reshape or melt away after tooth extraction, leading to jaw deformities. Socket grafting or bone preservation procedures can prevent or repair these defects, improving the success of dental implants, bridges, or dentures. The procedure involves filling the socket with bone or a bone-like material to stimulate new bone growth. A membrane may be placed over the grafting material to aid in healing. After a few months of healing, a dental implant can be placed to preserve bone and function. Following these procedures, it is important to follow postoperative instructions for optimal healing and recovery.
Postoperative Instructions for Grafted Socket/Bone Preservation Procedures
After the procedure, you may notice a white membrane inside the socket, which should remain in place for about a month. If the membrane comes out sooner, contact the office for evaluation. It is normal to have small particles in your mouth, but if a large amount comes out, contact the office. Sutures in the area will dissolve in 7-14 days.
Brushing and Hygiene
Avoid disturbing the wound and follow specific instructions for rinsing and cleaning the area. Use prescribed mouth rinse as directed and keep the rest of your mouth clean during healing.
Medication
Take all prescribed medications as directed, including antibiotics and pain medication. Avoid using commercial mouth rinses and follow instructions for oral contraceptives if applicable.
Smoking
Avoid smoking during the healing process to prevent delays in healing and complications.
Diet
Avoid undue pressure on the area and chew on the opposite side of the mouth. Begin with cool liquids and stay hydrated while healing.
Corners of the Mouth or Lips
Keep dry or cracked areas moist with ointment.
Ice/Swelling
Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and discomfort in the first 24 hours. Keep your head elevated while sleeping to aid in healing.
Numbness/Discomfort
Numbness and discomfort are normal postoperatively and should improve over time.
Gauze Packs/Bleeding
Change gauze as needed to control bleeding and follow instructions for managing bleeding.
Wearing Your Prostheses
Follow specific instructions for wearing stay plates, partial dentures, or full dentures.
Temperature (Fever)
A slight temperature is normal for the first few days postoperatively, but if it continues, contact the office.
Stiffness of the Jaw Muscles
Apply a warm towel to the affected area if stiffness occurs.
Care Instructions for After Sinus Lift Surgery
After sinus lift surgery, it is crucial to diligently adhere to the provided post-operative care instructions.
- Refrain from blowing your nose for at least four weeks after the procedure, or longer if advised.
- When sneezing, do not hold your nose; instead, sneeze with your mouth open.
- Avoid spitting or drinking through a straw.
- Stay away from flying in pressurized aircraft to prevent increased sinus pressure.
- Consider using decongestants like Drixoral®, Dimetapp®, or Sudafed® to alleviate sinus pressure.
- If prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed to prevent infection.
- Avoid activities that create pressure in your nasal cavity, such as lifting heavy objects, blowing up balloons, or playing wind instruments. If you smoke, cease for at least two weeks post-surgery.
- Refrain from rinsing or spitting on the day of surgery.
- Maintain oral hygiene by using warm saltwater rinses multiple times a day, especially after meals.
- Do not brush the surgical site for the first 48 hours after surgery; be gentle when brushing other teeth.
- If you wear partial or full dentures, refrain from using them immediately after surgery until your post-operative appointment, unless instructed otherwise. If you have a temporary flipper, wait until the numbness subsides before wearing it.
New Patients Welcome!
For more information about our dental services or to schedule a consultation at Oral & Facial Surgeons of Arizona, please contact us today.