It is important that you keep your mouth as clean as possible for the first few weeks after surgery, to prevent infection. It will be sore and you may find it difficult to clean your teeth around the stitches. Try using a soft small-headed toothbrush, such as a child’s.
Starting the day after your surgery, gently rinse your mouth with
mouthwash or warm salt water (dissolve a flat teaspoon of table salt in a cup of warm water) three times a day for five to seven days, to keep it free from food remains. We will give you mouthwash to start using in hospital and to take home with you. Please note that mouthwash does not replace brushing your teeth.
It is important that you do not smoke because it makes you more likely to develop an infection. If you would like advice on how to stop smoking please speak to a nurse.
