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.

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.