Your Guide to a Smooth Recovery
Pain Management
Some discomfort is expected after oral surgery and may continue for several days. Take any prescribed pain medication exactly as directed by your dental specialist.
Pain medication is generally better tolerated when taken with food or a small snack, as taking it on an empty stomach may cause nausea.
Some patients may be able to manage discomfort with over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen. However, follow the dosage recommendations provided by your dental or medical professional and make sure you do not exceed the recommended daily amount.
If your prescription medication contains acetaminophen, avoid taking additional acetaminophen-containing products unless your healthcare provider specifically tells you to do so. Contact our office if you are unsure about combining medications.
Bleeding
A small amount of bleeding or oozing can be normal following surgery. If bleeding becomes excessive or continues: Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting. Keep your head elevated when lying down. Place moistened gauze over the surgical area and apply steady, moderate pressure for approximately 20 minutes. If recommended by your dental team, a moistened tea bag may also be used with gentle pressure. Contact our office if significant bleeding continues despite these measures.
Surgical Dressing
A surgical dressing may be placed over the treatment area to protect the site and improve comfort while healing begins. Avoid disturbing or pulling at the dressing. If it becomes loose, falls out, or causes significant discomfort, contact our office for instructions rather than attempting to replace it yourself.
Diet
Avoid chewing directly on the surgical side until your dental specialist confirms that it is safe to do so. A soft diet is recommended during the initial healing period. Comfortable choices may include: Cottage cheese Oatmeal Soup Eggs Yogurt Pasta Mashed potatoes Soft casseroles Soft fruits Avoid extremely hot foods and beverages immediately following surgery, particularly while the surgical dressing is in place. Maintaining good nutrition and staying adequately hydrated can support your body's recovery and healing process.
Smoking
Avoid smoking for at least 2 weeks following surgery, or for the period recommended by your dental specialist. Smoking can interfere with normal healing and may negatively affect the outcome of your treatment.
Alcohol
Avoid alcoholic beverages while taking prescription pain medication or other medications that may interact with alcohol.
Rinsing
Do not rinse your mouth during the first 24 hours unless you have been given different instructions. After the first day, you may gently use a mild, diluted mouth rinse as directed. Avoid vigorous swishing, as excessive movement can irritate the healing surgical area.
Brushing and Flossing
Do not brush directly over the surgical site during the initial healing period. You may generally resume brushing and flossing the other areas of your mouth the following day, taking care to avoid disturbing the treatment area. Follow any additional oral-hygiene instructions provided specifically for your procedure.
Suture Removal
Some patients may notice increased tenderness several days after surgery as the tissues begin to heal around the sutures and dressing. If your procedure requires suture removal, your dental team will schedule an appointment and provide instructions for preparing for the visit. If you have been instructed to take antibiotic premedication before dental procedures, follow those instructions before your suture removal appointment.
Swelling
Some swelling is normal following oral surgery. Swelling may become more noticeable during the first 2–3 days before gradually improving. To help reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to the outside of the cheek for approximately 20 minutes at a time, followed by a 20-minute break. Continue this approach as needed during the first couple of days after surgery.
Brushing and Flossing
Do not brush directly over the surgical site during the initial healing period. You may generally resume brushing and flossing the other areas of your mouth the following day, taking care to avoid disturbing the treatment area. Follow any additional oral-hygiene instructions provided specifically for your procedure.
Antibiotics
If an antibiotic has been prescribed following your procedure, take it exactly as instructed and complete the prescribed course unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise. Please inform our office about any known antibiotic allergies or sensitivities. Taking certain antibiotics with food may help reduce stomach discomfort.
Signs you may need treatment
Persistent or
Increasing Pain
Excessive or
Continuous Bleeding
Significant Swelling
or Tenderness
Problems With the Surgical
Dressing or Sutures
What to expect
1
Manage
We provide personalized instructions for managing discomfort, swelling, bleeding, medications, and your diet during the first stage of recovery.
2
Protect
3
Heal
Common questions
How long will I have discomfort after oral surgery?
When does swelling usually reach its peak?
What should I eat after surgery?
When can I brush my teeth after surgery?
You can usually resume brushing and flossing areas away from the surgical site the following day. Avoid brushing directly over the treatment area until instructed otherwise.
When should I contact the dental office?
Contact your dental team if you experience persistent or excessive bleeding, unusual swelling, worsening pain, problems with the surgical dressing, or anything that concerns you during recovery.