Home Care Instructions

What to Expect

PAIN in varying amounts is normal after oral surgery.  Its severity usually depends on the extent of surgery.  The worst pain is usually experienced at the time anesthesia wears off and for 6 to 8 hours after. Usually pain decreases significantly after this period. 

SWELLING commonly develops after oral surgery, and usually reaches its peak 24 to 48 and then should begin resolving.  Place an ice bag over the affected area alternating 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off for the first 2 to 3 hours after surgery to help reduce the amount of swelling.

BLEEDING should be expected on the day of surgery.  Bite on your gauze pack, changing it every half hour, until the bleeding subsides.  DO NOT RINSE YOUR MOUTH ON THE DAY OF SURGERY.  Oozing may continue for a day or two in minimal amounts.  Do not spit or suck through a straw for several days following surgery because this prolongs bleeding.

Diet

At first, eat soft foods, for example scrambled eggs, soup, high calorie liquids, yogurt and ice cream. Protein foods and fluids are especially important for healing.  After the first 24 hours, begin to eat whatever is comfortable. 

Oral Hygiene

Starting 24 hours after surgery, you may rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water (1/2 tsp. of salt in a 10 oz. glass of water) after each meal.  Brush and floss normally, using caution in the area of surgery. NO SMOKING for at least 24 hours.

Activity

AVOID HEAVY PHYSICAL ACTIVITY for the first 24 hours after oral surgery, 2-3 days if impacted molars or more involved surgery.

Medication

Be sure to take medications as directed.

If Pain Medication is prescribed, fill the prescription immediately and take first dose before the numbness begins to wear off.

If antibiotics are prescribed, take the entire prescription as prescribed.

If Medrol or Steroid Dose Pack is prescribed, take all tablets as directed

Complications

IF BLEEDING PERSISTS elevate your head, and place a dampened tea bag or 2 by 2 gauze square over the area and bite firmly for at least one hours.

NAUSEA may occur after oral surgery and is usually due to prescribed pain pills. Stop the pain pills and take an antacid or a carbonated beverage should this occur.

SHOULD ANY OF THE FOLLOWING OCCUR, call or come in immediately:  severe bleeding, high fever, rapidly expanding swelling with difficulty swallowing or breathing, persistent vomiting.