Oral Surgery: Post Operative Care Instructions

Following these care instructions will help promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Pain and Discomfort

As the freezing (local anesthetic) wears off, it is normal to experience pain, soreness, or discomfort. Pain is typically most noticeable during the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Mild residual discomfort may continue for up to 5 days.

If your dentist has prescribed pain medication, take it exactly as directed. Do not take more than the recommended dose, and avoid drinking alcohol while taking the medication.

Bleeding

Some bleeding is expected for the first one to two hours after surgery. Leave the gauze placed by your provider in position for one full hour, even if it becomes soaked with blood.

If bleeding continues after the first hour, replace the gauze with a fresh piece and bite down firmly for another hour.

You may notice slight oozing for up to 24 hours after surgery. Blood mixing with saliva can make it appear as though you are bleeding more than you actually are.

If you are unable to control the bleeding four hours after surgery, contact your dentist immediately.

Getting plenty of rest is important. Avoid strenuous activity, as increased physical activity can worsen bleeding. Resting helps reduce blood flow to the surgical site and supports healing.

Swelling and Bruising

Facial swelling is common after oral surgery and may last for up to one week. As the swelling begins to subside, bruising may develop and can last for up to 10 days.

To reduce swelling:

Apply a cold compress for 10 minutes on, followed by 10 minutes off, during the first 24 hours after surgery.

After the first 24 hours, switch to a warm compress to improve circulation and help reduce swelling.

Do not use a warm compress during the first 24 hours, as heat can increase swelling.

Jaw Soreness

It is common to experience jaw stiffness or soreness after oral surgery. You may have difficulty opening your mouth fully for up to 10 days.

Choose soft, easy-to-chew foods such as:

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Soup
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Yogurt
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Mashed Potatoes
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Banana
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Scrambled Eggs
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Pasta
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Avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy foods, and do not chew gum until your dentist advises it is safe to do so.

Important Aftercare Instructions

For the first 24 hours after surgery:

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Do not rinse your mouth.
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Avoid vigorous spitting or drinking through a straw, as these actions can dislodge the blood clot and interfere with healing.

For the first two weeks after surgery:

Do not smoke or use any tobacco products.

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Avoid drinking alcohol.
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Tobacco and alcohol can delay healing, interfere with blood clot formation, and increase the risk of infection.

Following these instructions will help your mouth heal as quickly and comfortably as possible. If you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain that is not controlled with medication, increasing swelling after several days, fever, or any other concerns, contact your dentist promptly.