Caring For Your Incision & Drainage
Today we made a small opening to drain an infection and relieve the pressure and pain it was causing. You should feel better quickly as the pressure releases. Finishing your antibiotic and caring for the area are what clear the infection fully. Here is how.
The First Few Days
- Relief of pressure and pain usually comes quickly once it drains.
- Some drainage from the site for a day or two is expected and is a good sign.
- Mild soreness and swelling ease as the infection clears.
Finish Your Antibiotic
- Take every dose of your antibiotic exactly as prescribed, even after you feel better.
- Do not stop early. Stopping lets the infection come back, often stronger.
- Stay ahead of soreness with pain relief on schedule.
Keeping It Clean
- Warm salt water rinses several times a day, especially after meals, keep it clean and help it drain.
- Warm compress on the cheek can help drainage and comfort.
- Soft foods and chewing away from the area while it heals.
- For tender gums, vitamin E can soothe and help healing. Take it over the counter, or break a gel capsule and rub it on the gums. You can also ask us for StellaLife gel.
Call Us If
- Swelling that is spreading, especially toward the eye or down the neck.
- Fever, chills, or trouble swallowing or breathing. Seek care right away.
- Pain or swelling that worsens instead of improving after draining.
- The infection returns after it seemed to clear.
Clearing The Infection For Good
Draining the infection gave you fast relief, but the root cause still needs to be addressed so it does not come back. Finishing treatment is what makes it last.
- Finish your full antibiotic and keep it clean with salt water rinses.
- Keep your follow-up visit. The tooth or source of the infection still needs definitive treatment, draining alone is temporary.
- Do not ignore it once you feel better. The infection can return if the cause is not treated.
Finish your treatment and follow through, and we will clear this up for good!
Questions or worsening symptoms? Call the office anytime. We are here for you!
