Post Op Instructions TADS Placement

Diet & Numbness

  • Wait until ALL numbness from the procedure is gone before eating anything that requires chewing OR any food or drink that is hot.
  • Eat a well-balanced diet, focusing on soft foods (e.g., yogurt, eggs, smoothies) for the first 48 hours. Avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy foods (e.g., nuts, gum, hard bread) to protect the TAD site.
  • Drink plenty of water, but avoid straws for the first 24 hours to reduce pressure in the mouth.

Medications

All instructions regarding medication apply, unless you have a contraindication (like drug allergy) or have been otherwise directed by Dr. Adams or another doctor.

  • Follow Dr. Adams’ instructions for any prescribed or recommended medications.
  • Ibuprofen: Take 600-800 mg of ibuprofen every 8 hours for the first 3 days, and then as needed to manage pain and inflammation. Take with food to avoid upset stomach.
  • Dexamethasone (if prescribed): Take IN ADDITION TO ibuprofen for best results or as directed by Dr. Adams. Complete the entire course as prescribed.
  • If Ibuprofen alone does not control pain, alternate Ibuprofen (600-800 mg) and Tylenol (500 mg) every 8 hours.

Example Schedule:

8:00 AM: Ibuprofen 600-800 mg

12:00 PM: Tylenol 500 mg

4:00 PM: Ibuprofen 600-800 mg

8:00 PM: Tylenol 500 mg

12:00 AM: Ibuprofen 600-800 mg

Do not exceed 2400 mg Ibuprofen or 1500 mg Tylenol in a 24-hour period.

Oral Hygiene

  • Keep the area clean: Use a Waterpik and soft toothbrush to gently clean around the TAD sites, preferably after every meal, and no less than 3x daily. Avoid aggressive brushing to prevent irritation or dislodgement. Our preferred toothbrush is Sonicare.
  • Avoid harsh mouthwashes, like Listerine, for the first 4 weeks.
  • Rinse with warm salt water (1 tsp in 8 oz of warm water) twice daily for at least the first 5 days to promote healing.
  • Resume normal brushing and flossing, being cautious near TADs.

Activity – Warning Signs – Follow Up

  • Rest for 24-48 hours: Avoid strenuous activities (e.g., heavy lifting, intense exercise) for 1-2 days to minimize swelling or bleeding.
  • Contact our office or seek immediate care if you notice and of the following:
    • severe pain not relieved by Ibuprofen or Tylenol
    • Excessive bleeding or swelling that worsens after 48 hours
    • TAD feels loose or moves significantly
    • Signs of infection (redness, warmth, pus, or fever above 100.4 F
    • Difficulty swallowing or breathing
  • Follow Up: Your next visit will be to install your MASPE appliance. If this was not scheduled at your TADs appointment, please contact us ASAP to schedule.
  • For any concerns prior to your next visit, please call or email us anytime.
  • AVOID smoking or alcohol for at least 48 hours, as these can delay healing.