Wound Care
Facial Lacerations
- Clean laceration with a mixture of half water and half hydrogen peroxide 3-to-4 times daily to gently remove all the scabbing and crusting from the wound.
- Apply a thin coating of antibiotic ointment after removing the crusting. Leave the wound exposed to air.
- The wound should not become excessively wet. Use care when showering. No swimming until the skin sutures are removed. Pat wound dry.
- If there is prolonged sun exposure during the next six months, #30 SPF sun block should be used.
- Do not remove Steri-Strips unless they are ready to fall off.
Oral and Dental Injuries
- If sutures were placed inside the mouth, they will dissolve in one to two weeks.
- Avoid sucking through a straw, smoking, or spitting.
- Rinse mouth out with warm salt water 3-4 times daily.
- Brush teeth and gums gently as tolerated. Be careful of sutured areas.
- Injured teeth may develop problems weeks to years later, possibly requiring endodontic (“root canal”) therapy, restorations, or even extraction. Watch for discoloration, tenderness, or loosening of teeth, as well as swelling or drainage associated with the gums. If any of these problems develop, contact your general dentist or call our office.
Infections (Abscesses)
- Take prescribed antibiotics as directed on bottle. Take the entire amount dispensed, even though you may be feeling better.
- Call immediately if you have an increased swelling in the back of your mouth, throat, tongue, or difficulty swallowing or breathing.
- Rinse with salt water 3-4 times daily.
- If you have a drain in place, do not disturb or remove it.
Call us with any questions Administration Office Phone Number 317-913-2363