Post-Oral Surgery Care Guidelines for a Smooth Recovery
Some bleeding is normal after oral surgery. If bleeding occurs, place a gauze pad directly over the bleeding socket and apply gentle biting pressure for 30 minutes. If bleeding persists, try using a moist tea bag for another 30 minutes. During bleeding, avoid hot liquids, exercise, and keep your head elevated. If bleeding continues, contact our office immediately. Do not remove immediate dentures unless bleeding is severe, and expect some oozing around the sides of the denture.
For the first 36 hours, use ice packs externally on the same side of your face as the operated area. Keep applying ice continuously while you are awake.
For mild discomfort, you can use aspirin, Tylenol, or similar medications—take two tablets every three to four hours. If needed, you can take Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) 200mg—two to three tablets every three to four hours. For severe pain, follow the prescription provided. If pain persists after two days or worsens, please contact our office. If you were prescribed antibiotics, complete the course as directed, regardless of your symptoms.
Drink plenty of fluids, especially if multiple teeth have been extracted, as the blood loss during this time needs to be replenished. Aim for at least six glasses of liquid on the first day.
For the first day after surgery, avoid rinsing your mouth, especially during bleeding. After the first day, use a warm salt-water rinse every four hours and after meals to flush out food particles and debris from the operated area (dissolve one teaspoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water). Once you have seen your dentist for denture adjustment, remove the denture and rinse three to four times a day.
Stick to a soft food and liquid diet that is comfortable for you to eat. As the wounds heal, you can gradually introduce more solid foods into your diet.
Multiple Teeth Extraction
If you underwent multiple teeth extraction, be aware of the following normal conditions:
Swelling: Swelling around the operated area may peak in two days. If there is discoloration around the eye, applying a moist warm towel can help reduce it. Start applying the towel 36 hours after surgery, but remember to use ice packs only in the first 36 hours.
Sore Throat: Due to proximity to the extraction sites, a sore throat may develop. Swelling in the throat muscles can cause discomfort, but this is normal and should subside in two to three days.
Dry Corners of the Mouth: Stretching of the corners of the mouth may cause them to dry out and crack. Keep your lips moist with an ointment like Vaseline.
Slight Elevation of Temperature: A mild temperature elevation for 24-48 hours is normal. If the temperature persists, notify the office.
Immediate Dentures: If you have immediate dentures, sore spots may develop. Your dentist will see you within 24-48 hours after surgery to make necessary adjustments to relieve these spots. Avoiding adjustments may lead to severe denture sores, prolonging the healing process.
By following these post-operative care instructions, you can ensure a smoother and more comfortable recovery after your oral surgery. For any concerns or questions during your healing process, do not hesitate to contact our office.
