Recovering from Oral Surgery

As with any surgery, it is critical that you follow your dentist’s post-procedural instructions after undergoing periodontal surgery. After surgery, it is normal for the affected area to be tender and for you to experience bleeding, pain, and swelling in the mouth and jaw area. In order to promote the healing process, here are some important do’s and don’ts to follow after undergoing oral surgery:

Do’s for Recovering from Oral Surgery

• Rest, rest rest! Take it easy on the day of your surgery and ease back into your normal routine as the swelling starts to go down.
• Apply ice packs to your cheeks for 15 minutes on and off.
• Stick to eating soft foods and liquids for the first couple of days.
• Take your antibiotics as prescribed and be sure to finish the full dosage.
• Keep your mouth clean. While you may be advised not to rinse for the first 24 hours, after the first day you should gently rinse with warm salt water to keep your mouth, dressing, and surgical site clean.
• Maintain a healthy diet rich in vitamins A and C, which contribute to the healing process.

Don’ts for Recovering from Oral Surgery

• Don’t overexert yourself. Refrain from lifting heavy objects or exercising for 3-4 days following surgery.
• Avoid hot food or drinks until the numbing wears off to avoid burning the mouth and gums.
• Don’t chew hard or crunchy foods that could open wounds in the mouth.
• Don’t brush or floss teeth in the surgical area until advised to do so by your dentist.
• Do not smoke after surgery. It will inhibit your body’s ability to heal quickly.
• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours, as it can delay the healing process.

Contact your dentist if you have any complications or questions following oral surgery. If you experience excessive bleeding, call your Longmeadow dentist immediately. To schedule an oral procedure or ask questions about post-procedural care, please make an appointment with your Longmeadow dentist today.