/ Patient Info / Post Op Instructions
Following your oral surgery, proper post-op care is essential for a smooth and speedy recovery. By sticking to these guidelines, you’ll minimize discomfort, prevent complications, and get back to feeling your best as quickly as possible. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.
It’s essential to have a responsible adult drive you home after surgery, as you will likely feel drowsy from anesthesia. We recommend someone stay with you for at least 24 hours to assist as needed. Take it easy for the rest of the day—avoid strenuous activities and allow your body time to recover.
Pain is normal after surgery, but it can be managed effectively. Take prescribed pain medications as directed, and you may also use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to the affected area for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off, during the first 24-48 hours.
Some bleeding is expected after surgery. To manage, bite down gently on gauze pads for the recommended time and replace them as needed. To minimize bleeding, keep your head elevated and avoid actions like spitting, using straws, or smoking, as these can disrupt healing.
Stick to soft foods and liquids for the first few days to avoid irritating the surgical site. Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or chewy foods, as they can cause discomfort. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids—but steer clear of alcohol and caffeine while you heal.
Keeping your mouth clean is essential for proper healing. Brush your teeth gently, avoiding the surgical area. Use any prescribed mouth rinses or warm saltwater rinses to keep the area clean. For now, skip commercial mouthwashes unless advised by your doctor.
While recovering, it’s best to give your body time to heal. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise, and then you can gradually ease back into your normal activities as you start to feel better. Overexertion can slow healing and increase the risk of complications.
Take all prescribed medications as directed. This may include antibiotics to prevent infection, pain relievers for comfort, and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling. If prescribed antibiotics, complete the full course to experience the full effect on your recovery.
Your surgeon may schedule a follow-up visit to monitor your healing progress. Keep an eye on symptoms such as excessive bleeding, severe pain that isn’t relieved by medication, or signs of infection like fever, swelling, or pus. If you experience any of these, contact our office immediately or seek emergency care if needed.
Following these post-op instructions will set you up for a smooth recovery. Our team is always here to help—if you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’re committed to your comfort and care every step of the way.
