Oral Surgery Post-Op Instructions
Follow Oral Surgery Post-Op Instructions in Hampton Roads
Proper care after oral surgery can support healing and help reduce discomfort and complications. These oral surgery post-op instructions in Hampton Roads provide general guidance following procedures such as tooth extractions, bone grafting, ridge augmentation, sinus lifts, and other oral surgical care. Because recovery varies by procedure, always follow any additional instructions provided by your oral surgeon at Eastern Virginia OMS.
Bleeding
Some bleeding or slight oozing is expected following many oral surgery procedures and may continue for up to 24 hours. If bleeding persists, gently remove any old clots as instructed and place a thick gauze pad directly over the surgical site. Bite down firmly or maintain steady pressure for 30 minutes. Repeat if necessary.
If bleeding continues, a moistened tea bag wrapped in gauze may be used as a pressure pack when appropriate. Tannic acid in tea can help encourage clot formation by contracting small blood vessels.
To help limit additional bleeding, remain calm, sit upright, and avoid exercise or strenuous activity. Contact Eastern Virginia OMS if bleeding does not subside.
Swelling
Swelling is a normal response following many oral surgery procedures, and its extent often depends on the type and complexity of treatment performed. Swelling around the mouth, cheeks, eyes, or sides of the face may occur. It frequently becomes more noticeable on the second day and may reach its peak around the third day after surgery.
Apply ice packs or bags filled with ice chips to the outside of the face over the surgical area. Use a schedule of 30 minutes on and 30 minutes off for the first 48-72 hours to help manage swelling and discomfort.
After 72 hours, moist heat applied to the skin over the surgical area may help reduce lingering swelling.
Pain Management
Take any prescribed pain medication according to your oral surgeon's directions. Prescription narcotic medications may cause drowsiness and slower reflexes. Do not drive, operate machinery, or consume alcohol while taking these medications.
Your surgeon may also recommend Advil (ibuprofen), Tylenol (acetaminophen), or another pain-management approach based on your procedure and health history. Follow the specific dosage and timing instructions you receive, and do not exceed recommended doses or combine medications unless directed to do so.
Avoid smoking for at least one week following surgery. Smoking can interfere with healing and, following an extraction, may increase the risk of dry socket.
Recommended Diet After Oral Surgery
A liquid, blenderized, or soft diet may be recommended for approximately five to seven days, depending on the procedure performed. Follow any procedure-specific dietary guidance provided by your surgeon.
Avoid using straws during early recovery when instructed, as suction can disturb blood clots at surgical sites and contribute to bleeding. Drink fluids frequently to prevent dehydration and choose nutritious foods with adequate calories and protein to support recovery.
Oral Hygiene After Oral Surgery
Keeping your mouth clean is important for proper healing. In many cases, you may carefully brush your teeth on the evening of surgery while avoiding the surgical site and refraining from rinsing that day.
Beginning the day after surgery, warm salt-water rinses may be recommended four to five times daily, especially after meals. Your surgeon may provide different or additional cleaning instructions depending on whether you have undergone an extraction, bone graft, sinus lift, or another procedure.
Physical Activity After Oral Surgery
Keep exercise and strenuous physical activity to a minimum on the day of your procedure. As you recover and feel stronger, gradually return to your normal activities according to your oral surgeon's recommendations. More involved surgical procedures may require additional recovery time or temporary activity restrictions.
Your individual recovery instructions may differ based on the oral surgery you receive. If you experience unexpected symptoms or have questions about healing, contact Eastern Virginia OMS and follow the guidance provided by your oral surgeon. Call Virginia Beach at 757-909-5440 or Norfolk at 757-418-8487.
