What to Do When You’re Recovering from Oral Surgery
There are many reasons that oral surgery may be necessary. Whether you’re dealing with a tooth extraction, are having dental implants installed, or need surgery for another reason entirely, California Dental Group is here to offer a few tips to help you recover more quickly.
Over the counter pain killers are likely enough
It’s normal for the area that was worked on to be sore or tender for a few days, but over the counter pain killers are likely to be enough to get through the pain. Just be sure to avoid medications with aspirin in them because it can thin the blood and make recovery take longer. For some surgeries, your dentist may prescribe a stronger painkiller. The key is to follow your doctor’s instructions.
Relax when your surgery is over
You want to schedule your oral surgery for a day when you can come home afterwards and relax. Make sure that when you go to do so, that you keep your head propped up. Use as many pillows as necessary, and try to sleep with your head elevated the first night too. This can help to keep swelling and bleeding to a minimum.
Use ice packs
You should start applying ice packs as soon as you get home. Use it for 15 minutes on, then take it off for 15 minutes. Then use it for 15 minutes, and off for 15 minutes. Continue this for the first few days. Doing so can help to reduce or prevent swelling.
Stick to a soft food diet
You shouldn’t eat anything while you’re actively bleeding. However, if the bleeding has stopped then you can move on to soft foods. This includes things like smoothies, mashed potatoes, applesauce, and yogurt. You should do this for a few days or until your mouth is no longer tender.
Take steps to keep your mouth clean
Start by following your dentist’s advice, which mean including not rinsing your mouth out for at least 24 hours after your surgery. Once that time has passed, then you’ll want to rinse out your mouth about four times a day. Your California dentist may suggest a prescription mouth wash, but if they don’t then we recommend using one teaspoon of salt in a glass of water. Rinse with this for about 30 seconds after you eat.
Make sure you’re getting your nutrients
It can be challenging to get your nutrients when you have such a limited diet but it’s important to try. Both Vitamins A and C contribute to healing, and the Academy of General Dentistry recommend both to patients who are healing from oral surgery.
If you have questions about any dental procedure, then your best bet is to reach out to your dentist directly. California Dental Group can be reached at (800) 407-0161. Call us today to set up your appointment and let us help you through your dental needs.
