Proper post-surgery care is crucial for ensuring a smooth and successful recovery after any oral surgery, whether it’s a tooth extraction, implant placement, or other procedures. Following your surgery, our team will provide you with detailed instructions tailored to your specific procedure. These instructions are designed to minimize discomfort, prevent complications, and promote optimal healing.
Post-Surgery Care Instructions:
Managing Bleeding:
Some bleeding after oral surgery is normal. To control it, place a piece of clean gauze over the surgical site and bite down gently. Replace the gauze every 30-45 minutes until the bleeding subsides. Avoid rinsing, spitting, or sucking through a straw, as these actions can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
Swelling Control:
Swelling around the surgical area is common and usually peaks within 48 hours. To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek in 20-minute intervals (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off). After the first 24-48 hours, you can switch to warm compresses to promote circulation.
Pain Management:
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, are typically sufficient for managing post-surgery discomfort. In some cases, your dentist may prescribe stronger medication. Be sure to take all medications as directed and avoid alcohol while taking prescription painkillers.
Dietary Guidelines:
Stick to a soft-food diet for the first few days following surgery. Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or chewy foods, as well as alcohol and caffeine. Focus on nutritious options like yogurt, applesauce, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and soups. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, but avoid using a straw.
Oral Hygiene:
Keeping your mouth clean is essential for preventing infection. Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water starting 24 hours after surgery, but avoid vigorous swishing. Brush your teeth carefully, avoiding the surgical site, and continue with regular flossing as much as possible.
Activity Restrictions:
Rest is important for recovery. Avoid strenuous physical activities, such as heavy lifting or exercise, for at least 48-72 hours after surgery. Elevating your head while sleeping can help reduce swelling and promote healing.
When to Contact Your Dentist:
While most post-surgery symptoms are normal, you should contact your dentist if you experience severe pain that isn’t relieved by medication, excessive bleeding, persistent swelling beyond three days, or any signs of infection such as fever, pus, or a foul taste in your mouth.