Post-Operative Instructions
Recovering from oral surgery comes with a few important steps to help you heal properly and avoid complications. The following instructions are designed to help you manage discomfort, reduce the risk of complications, and support the healing process from day one.
The First 24 Hours After Surgery
Gauze Care
After surgery, bite down gently but firmly on the gauze pads placed over the surgical area. Keep them in place for at least an hour. If bleeding continues, replace with new gauze and bite down for another 30–45 minutes.
It helps to dampen the gauze with a bit of water first—it’s more comfortable that way.
Managing Pain
You’ll likely feel some discomfort once the numbness fades. Start your prescribed pain medication as soon as you get home to stay ahead of the pain. If needed, you can also take over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or Advil, unless otherwise directed.
Antibiotics
If antibiotics were prescribed, take them exactly as directed and finish the full course.
Swelling and Ice Packs
Apply a cold pack wrapped in a towel to the outside of your face—20 minutes on, 20 minutes off—for the first 24 hours. Ice can help reduce swelling and make things more comfortable.
Eating and Drinking
Stick to liquids until the numbness fades, then move to soft foods like soup, pudding, or yogurt. Avoid hot, crunchy, or spicy foods, and don’t skip meals, as staying nourished supports healing.
What to Avoid
No smoking or alcohol for at least 72 hours—they can interfere with healing. Skip the mouthwash and avoid using straws for the first day. Try not to disturb the area, meaning no poking, rinsing, or brushing near the site at first.
The Days After Surgery
Keeping Your Mouth Clean
After 24 hours, start rinsing gently with warm salt water a few times a day. Begin brushing as soon as you feel up to it, just be gentle near the surgical site.
Warm Compresses
After two days, switch from ice to warm, moist heat to reduce any lingering swelling or stiffness.
Bleeding or Sharp Edges
Some light bleeding or oozing is normal. If you feel something sharp, it may be healing bone. It’s usually harmless but let us know if it’s bothering you.
Dry Sockets
If you notice dull, throbbing pain a few days after surgery, especially around the jaw or ear, it could be a dry socket.
A dry socket occurs when the blood clot that normally protects the healing site becomes dislodged or dissolves too early. It’s not dangerous, but it’s uncomfortable and treatable, so please call us if it happens.
Do You Have Any Questions or Problems After Oral Surgery?
If anything doesn’t feel right or you need help along the way, contact us anytime for guidance or clarification. We're here to support your recovery.
