Because of the close relationship between upper back teeth and the sinus, a communication between the sinus and the mouth sometimes results from surgery. This condition has occurred in your case, and may heal slowly and with difficulty. Certain precautions will assist healing and we ask that you faithfully follow these instructions:

1. DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES. BLOW YOUR NOSE FOR THE NEXT FOUR (4) WEEKS. This may be longer if indicated. You may sniff all you like but NO BLOWING.
2. Do not blow your nose or sneeze holding your nose.  Sneeze with your mouth open.
3. Do not drink with straws and do not spit.
4. Scuba diving and flying in pressurized aircraft may also increase sinus pressure and should be avoided.
5. Decongestants such as Drixoral, Dimetapp, or Sudafed will help reduce pressure in the sinuses.
6. If you are given a prescription for antibiotics.  Please take these as directed.
7. Anything that causes pressure in your nasal cavity must be avoided.
8. Avoid “bearing down”—as when lifting heavy objects, blowing up balloons, playing musical instruments that require a blowing action or any other activity that increases nasal or oral pressure.
9. Smoking must be stopped.
10. Eat only soft foods for several days, always trying to chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
11. Do not rinse vigorously for several days.
Slight bleeding from the nose is not uncommon for several days after surgery.

Please keep our office informed of any changes in your condition, especially if drainage or pain increases. It is important that you keep all future appointments until this condition has resolved.