Post-Operative Care Tips for Oral Surgery Patients
Posted on 7/15/2024 by Office
Proper aftercare following oral surgery is crucial for swift, complication-free healing. Oral surgeons provide instructions to optimize recovery. Adhering to the recommended guidelines protects your oral health.
Rest and Take It Easy
Be sure to schedule several days to rest and recover after your procedure. Avoid strenuous activity that could raise your blood pressure and cause bleeding issues. Take your time before returning to work or engaging in physical activities. Give your body adequate time to mend.
Ice Therapy
Using ice packs on the face over the surgery site helps minimize swelling and discomfort. Apply wrapped ice or cold compresses for 10-20 minutes at a time during the first 24-48 hours when swelling peaks. Avoid placing ice directly onto your skin.
Medications
Take prescribed medications like antibiotics and pain relievers as directed. Antibiotics prevent infection, while pain pills keep you comfortable. Over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen can control milder pain after the first few days.
Diet
Stick with a soft, cool diet to protect the surgery site as it heals. Avoid very hot, crunchy, or chewy foods that could disrupt sutures. Nutritional shakes, cool soups, yogurt, applesauce, and other smooth foods are best. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Oral Hygiene
Carefully brush your teeth and avoid forceful spitting. Use a soft brush and be gentle around the surgery site. Saltwater rinses help keep the area clean. Your surgeon may recommend using oral rinses like chlorhexidine for a period after surgery.
Wound Care
If instructed, gently clean the incision site with hydrogen peroxide or alcohol-free mouthwash. Avoid disturbing blood clots. Watch for increased bleeding, swelling, pain, or oozing that could indicate complications. Follow specific directions on changing dressings.
Notify Your Surgeon if Issues Arise
Pay close attention to your recovery progress and alert your oral surgeon about any concerns, symptoms, or problems. Do not hesitate to call if you have questions or need guidance for a smooth recovery.
Closely adhering to the post-op instructions of your surgeon optimizes healing after oral surgery. Notify your oral and maxillofacial surgery office right away if any worrisome symptoms develop.
Oral Surgeon Gilroy • About South Valley Oral & Facial Surgery We believe your smile is a work of art; it deserves as much care and attention as any masterpiece. Give us a call in San Jose, Gilroy or Los Banos today! South Valley Oral and Facial Surgery, 5595 Winfield Blvd, Suite 202, San Jose, CA 95123-1220, 408-479-9449, svofs.com, 12/5/2024, Page Keywords: dental implants San Jose CA,
Proper aftercare following oral surgery is crucial for swift, complication-free healing. Oral surgeons provide instructions to optimize recovery. Adhering to the recommended guidelines protects your oral health.