Recovery after oral surgery can be overwhelming for the first 48 hours. The pain, swelling, and uncertainty make the healing process appear daunting. However, following the right steps during this critical period will go a long way in putting you on the path to recovery.
Proper care in the initial 48 hours enables one to reduce swelling, manage pain, and ensure faster healing. This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to do to recover effectively after oral surgery.
The first hours after oral surgery could be characterised by numbness, some bleeding, and swelling. Numbness is common and usually due to anesthesia. Bleeding can last for some hours, while swelling often develops some hours later, once the anesthesia has worn off.
Rest and Elevate the Head: This will reduce swelling. Rest in a comfortable position.
Control Bleeding: Bite gently on gauze to control any bleeding. Change gauze as needed.
Apply Ice Packs: These can be applied to the outside of your face for periods of 15-20 minutes at a time.
Medication Directions: Follow the medication instructions provided for pain management and prevention of infection.
Some oral surgeries are followed by mild discomfort, which may build up to sharp pain if not managed. Your surgeon may prescribe pain medications to manage this. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen may also be useful.
Swelling is part of the normal healing process. Use ice regularly for the first 24 hours after surgery to decrease swelling. When resting, keep your head raised on extra pillows to help reduce swelling.
If the swelling worsens, you develop pain that is unbearable, or if you develop a fever, immediately contact your surgeon. Those could be indications of an infection or any other complication.
Rest is important during the first 24 hours following oral surgery in Pittsfield. One should limit movement and avoid strenuous activities. The surgical area should be kept clean and free from any unnecessary pressure.
Follow a soft diet: mashed potatoes, soup, yogurt. Continue to drink plenty of fluids, but avoid using straws to minimize dislodging of the surgical site.
Gently brush your teeth without disturbing the surgical site. Lightly rinse your mouth with saltwater to aid in the healing process.
By day two, you can begin to resume light activities. However, you should avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting to allow your body time to heal.
Some swelling or bruising may still be present. The continued application of ice will be helpful, as it will keep the head elevated while resting.
Avoid resuming your normal schedule too early. Take as much rest as possible. The more rest, the fuller the recovery. Resume normal activities only gradually as you feel yourself getting better.
Possible complications are increased bleeding, sharp pain, or high fever following oral surgery in Pittsfield. Call your surgeon immediately. These may be indications of an infection or other complications.
In case of an emergency, please contact your dentist or surgeon for advice. Should the bleeding not stop or if you have uncontrollable pain, immediate medical treatment should be sought.
The first 48 hours following oral surgery are crucial and form the base of a smooth recovery. Following the above step-by-step guidelines will help to manage pain, swelling, and discomfort much better. This initial phase is the prime component of reducing complications and enhancing faster healing.
If at any time you feel concerned or would like more guidance, please do not hesitate to contact our office. We will do our best to support you through your recovery process.
Is bleeding normal after oral surgery?
Yes, some bleeding is normal during the first few hours. Bite gently on gauze to help control bleeding. If it persists or becomes excessive, contact your dentist immediately.
What should I eat during the first 24 hours after oral surgery?
Stick to soft, easy-to-eat foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soups. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that could irritate the surgical area during the initial recovery period.
When can I return to work after oral surgery?
It depends on the type of surgery and your recovery progress. Typically, you can return to work within 1-3 days, but avoid strenuous physical activities for at least a week.
Can I smoke after oral surgery?
Smoking should be avoided after oral surgery, as it can increase the risk of infection, delay healing, and contribute to complications like dry socket. Follow your dentist’s advice on post-surgery care.
When can I resume my normal eating habits after oral surgery?
After the initial 24-48 hours of soft food, you can gradually reintroduce normal foods based on comfort. Avoid hard, chewy, or crunchy foods until fully healed to avoid irritation.