Essential Aftercare Tips for Oral Surgery Recovery: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers

While we try to offer minimally invasive treatments, sometimes undergoing surgery may be necessary to restore your oral function and aesthetics. Oral surgery can be overwhelming, but Drs. Marcella Guzman, Philip Fidel, and Rosa Sinno ensure your experience during and after treatment is as comfortable as possible. 

Have you undergone oral surgery? Follow the aftercare tips below to reduce discomfort and prevent complications.

• Take recommended medications: The doctor may recommend antibiotics to prevent or manage lingering infections. It’s essential to follow the prescribed dosage to ensure the medication combats bacteria. Even if symptoms like pain or swelling start to improve, continue the entire course of antibiotics as directed. Discontinuing treatment can lead to the infection recurring or becoming resistant, complicating the healing process.
• Get plenty of rest: Your body needs rest to heal. Take days off from work and avoid strenuous activities for a few days. This means you avoid strenuous activities/exercises like heavy lifting, running, etc. 
• Use ice: Sometimes, relief comes from a simple treatment like applying ice. After surgery, it’s normal to experience pain and swelling around the surgical site. Manage these discomforts by applying ice on the cheeks of the affected area. Do this intermittently every 20-30 minutes or when the symptoms worsen.
• Watch your diet: As expected, your chewing and biting ability will diminish after surgery. Besides, pain may prevent you from enjoying all your favorite foods. In the first few days, stick to soft foods and liquids. This means your diet will be rich in yogurt, broth, smoothies, mashed potatoes, juices, and other soft foods. Avoid hot, spicy, and crunchy foods, as they may irritate the surgical site. Stay hydrated and avoid using straws to prevent a dry socket. 
• Observe good oral hygiene: Infection is the last thing you want during healing. Brush and floss your teeth diligently, but avoid the treated area for a few days. Rinse your mouth with warm, salty water to eliminate harmful bacteria. 
• Avoid smoking/alcohol: Tobacco delays healing, while alcohol can irritate your wound. Before and during healing, stop smoking and alcohol use to ensure smooth recovery. 

While complications during healing are rare, it’s essential to monitor for any warning signs. If you experience increased pain, swelling, or unexpected bleeding, contact us immediately so we can assess and assist with necessary care.

It depends on the type of surgery and your healing ability. Generally, most patients can return to regular activities within 2-3 days, but full recovery may take a few weeks to a month. While healing isn’t instantaneous, carefully following post-operative instructions can help promote faster, healthier recovery.