Tips to Recover from Oral Surgery

tips to recover from oral surgery

Congratulations! You have successfully made it through your oral surgery in Edmonton! It’s time for you to now pay attention to post-surgery care and instructions to be on the path to a quick and speedy recovery!

If you just had a dental procedure to remove your wisdom teeth or get dental implants, or any other dental surgery, there are many simple steps that you can take to prevent infection and ease the discomfort.  

Take it easy.

After your dental procedure, it is best to take the rest of the day off and rest. If you were administered a sedative for the process, there are chances that you will be lightheaded and drowsy. Have a friend or family member drive you home after your appointment. Do not do anything that requires your steady concentration or heavy lifting. It is essential to avoid strenuous activities. Avoid any activity that can cause you to begin bleeding again or dislodge the blood that is already clotted. When you are sleeping. Don't lay your head flat instead, try to keep it elevated at a height. 

Follow your dentist's instructions.

The dentist will provide you with instructions to ease the pain and discomfort after the dental procedure. The dentist may instruct you not to use mouthwash or brush your teeth, as the area may be sensitive. Sometimes, the dentist may suggest avoiding just the wounded area and carry out regular oral care for the rest of your mouth. Other instructions may include rinsing your mouth with warm water and salt to avoid infections. It is necessary to follow your dentists’ instructions to keep the abounded area clean and devoid of food particles and bacteria to avoid the risk of infection.

 Ice the wounded area.

After the dental procedure, your face or mouth may be susceptible to swelling or bruises. It is crucial to ice the jaw area for 30 minutes with 15-minute intervals for the first 24 hours after the dental procedure. You can alternate from side to side if required. The swelling should reduce in two-three days after the procedure. In case it gets worse, you get a fever, or you notice pus forming in the area, go to a dentist near you immediately.

 Clot the blood.

After the surgery, it is normal to have some bleeding on the first day. To help control the blood flow, gently bit on some folded gauze to reduce the flow. If the bleeding persists for over 24 hours, or you have to constantly change the gauze, call or visit your dentist immediately.

Guard the blood clot. 

Make sure not to do anything that can dislodge or disturb the clotted blood. Avoid drinking with a straw, avoid carbonated drinks or alcoholic beverages, and avoid smoking for a minimum of three days after your dental procedure. It is recommended to avoid spitting often as well because the clotted blood is healing the wounded area. 

Control what you eat for a few days. 

Avoid eating chewy, sticky, hot or cold, spicy, and rough food after your dental surgery. It is best to stick to a diet consisting of soft or liquid food such as yogurt, juices, oatmeal, etc. 

Take your pain medication on time.

Your dentist will provide you with a prescription for pain medication for maybe the first 48 hours after the dental surgery. If not, you can also access over the counter pain relief treatments like NSAIDs or acetaminophen. 

Watch out for infections or unusual symptoms. 

After the first 24-48 hours, if any bleeding or swelling persists or you notice pus forming on the wounded area you might be prone to infection. You may also be experiencing an allergic reaction to the anesthesia you were administered. Contact your dentist if you are experiencing any of these signs. 

Go for regular follow up appointments. 

You must make a point to go back to your dentist for follow up appointments to ensure that your healing process is on the right track. To ensure that you avoid any infections and heal fast, follow your dentists’ instructions and take all necessary steps to prevent complications. 

For more information on oral surgery near you and, visit a dentist in Edmonton today.

 

 


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