Post-Operative Instructions: Following Oral Surgery
- You have just undergone an oral surgery procedure. A limited amount of pain, swelling, and bruising is to be expected and should be no cause for alarm.
- The gauze that has been placed in the mouth should remain in place for 2 hours by biting firmly. Also, refrain from spitting and talking. These activities tend to make bleeding worse.
- A slight amount of blood mixed with saliva should be ignored; however, should there be active bleeding, place a new gauze sponge over the wound and bite on it hard enough to cause pressure for 2 more hours. Do not talk, spit, eat, or drink during these hours.
- After active bleeding has subsided and the gauze is removed, you may rinse gently several times a day with a mouthwash consisting of ½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.
- Apply an ice bag or cold, wet towels to the face for the first day to inhibit swelling. Also, elevation of the head and sleeping on 2–3 pillows tend to reduce swelling.
- Drink large quantities of water or fruit juices (3–4 quarts per day).
- You must have plenty of food in your stomach — wait 30 minutes before taking pain medication. Make sure you eat plenty of food; taking medication on an empty stomach can produce nausea.
- If you are still having pain after taking the prescribed pain medications, you can add Advil® or Motrin®.
- No alcohol, smoking, or drinking through a straw for 1 week. These activities make the areas bleed more, cause more pain, and delay healing.
- The sutures/stitches placed in the surgery site will dissolve in 1–2 weeks; therefore, there is no need for their removal.
- We are very interested in your prompt recovery, so if any unusual symptoms should arise, please contact the office at once.
To request a consultation and learn more about how we can help improve your smile, please request an appointment now.
To learn more about how we can help improve your smile, please request an appointment now.
