Thank you for trusting our team with your care. Proper post-operative care is essential for healing and comfort. Please read these instructions carefully following your procedure.
Managing Bleeding After Surgery
Some bleeding is normal after oral surgery.
- Bite firmly on the gauze pad placed over the surgical site.
- Keep steady pressure until bleeding slows.
- Replace gauze as needed.
- Continue applying pressure until bleeding stops.
Dizziness After Surgery
It is common to feel lightheaded after surgery.
- Sit up slowly.
- Pause for a minute before standing.
- Avoid sudden movements.
This sensation typically resolves within a few days.
Activity Restrictions
- Avoid strenuous activity for 3–4 days.
- Resume normal activity as tolerated.
- Rest is encouraged during the first 24 hours.
Increased heart rate and activity may restart bleeding.
Pain Medication & Prescriptions
Take all medications exactly as prescribed.
If you were prescribed narcotic pain medication (stronger than Tylenol or Ibuprofen):
- Do NOT drive.
- Do NOT operate machinery.
- Avoid important decisions while medicated.
- Avoid alcohol.
These medications can cause drowsiness and impair judgment.
If antibiotics were prescribed, complete the full course.
- 600 mg Ibuprofen every 6 hours
- 500 mg Tylenol every 6 hours
Swelling, Bruising & Discomfort
Swelling and soreness are expected.
- Swelling typically increases for 3–4 days.
- Improvement begins after this period.
- Most patients taper off pain medication during the second week.
Facial swelling around the eyes and cheeks is common.
Cold Compress (First 48 Hours)
- Apply near the surgical area.
- 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off.
- Always place cloth between ice and skin.
- Ice is no longer effective after 48 hours.
After 36 Hours
Switch to moist heat to reduce swelling and stiffness.
Eating & Drinking After Oral Surgery
First 24–48 Hours — Avoid:
- Rinsing
- Spitting
- Smoking
- Drinking from a bottle
- Carbonated beverages
- Alcohol
- Hot or spicy foods
Avoid straws for one full week to prevent increased bleeding.
Recommended Diet
Stick to soft foods and liquids:
- Soup (lukewarm)
- Yogurt
- Smoothies (no straw)
- Juice
- Soft pasta
- Scrambled eggs
Advance diet slowly as tolerated.
Oral Hygiene Instructions
- Do NOT brush, rinse, or spit on the day of surgery.
- Resume gentle brushing the following day (avoid surgical sites).
Salt Water Rinse
Beginning the day after surgery:
Mix:
½ teaspoon salt
8 oz warm water
Rinse gently 3 times per day for 7–10 days.
This helps keep the area clean and promotes healing.
Temporary Numbness
You may experience numbness of the lip, chin, or tongue.
- This is typically temporary.
- Normal sensation usually returns within a few days.
- Be careful while eating to avoid accidental biting.
If numbness persists beyond several weeks, contact our office.