Suggestions for after dental surgery

[Judie P]

On Monday I had two teeth pulled.  One had broken at the gum line a year ago, and the other had a crown with a cavity and an abscess.  I also had another large cavity removed from the remaining tooth in the back.  My dentist did a deep cleaning on the entire top portion of my right mouth because I have Sjogren's.  I have one more doxycyline to take for today.  I also have stitches to be removed on Monday.  He has placed two temporary bridge teeth in that will become permanent in about six weeks.  The bleeding seems to have stopped and the pain is down to mainly the pain I get when I inhale through my nose.  It seems to go all along the cheek (thinking it is sinuses and bone for now).  Not sure.

Besides the usual salt/water and ice on the face, is there any particular mouth wash that you have used that is better for Sjoggies like us?  Are there any other suggestions that I should be doing as a Sjoggie?

[irish]

I had many abscesses removed and I always had 10 days of antibiotics so only a couple of days surprises me. Abscesses can cause lingering bacteria in gums so need the antibiotic.  hubby had gum disease and had hard cleaning every 6 weeks on some teeth on a schedule. He always had a week of antibiotic as the cleaning is invasive along the gum line. With the sjogrens and propensity to infections I am wondering if you should discuss this further with your doc.

Actually the salt water rinse is really good and less traumatic chemical for the tissues. I also had the rest of my teeth pulled and then a reconstructive gum repair with the above treatments. The other thing is to keep up a good nutritious diet to aid healting. Plenty of protein. Good luck Irish

[Judie P]

I had already been on antibiotics for two weeks before the surgery.  First Clindomycin which held my stomach and intestines hostage and I stopped it when my general practitioner gave me doxycycline.  I still had three days of doxy after the surgery.  My dentist did question it and hestitated a little bit, but if I am to have any increased pain, etc., I am to call him immediately.

I am also taking a bottle of Ensure every day for nutrients.  I can't wait to feel better again.  My SJS and fatigue is flaring!  Thank you so much, Irish.